Which of the following best describes a formative assessment in physical education?

A formative assessment in physical education is characterized by its ongoing nature during the learning process. This type of assessment is essential for monitoring student progress, adjusting teaching methods, and providing feedback that can help students improve their skills and understanding. It involves collecting data on students’ performance and understanding while learning is still occurring, allowing educators to make informed decisions on instruction.

This contrasts with other assessment types. For example, evaluations conducted at the end of a unit fall into the category of summative assessments, which provide insight into the overall effectiveness of instruction after learning has been completed. Standardized tests for fitness are often used to measure specific skills or abilities at one point in time, rather than capturing the continuous development of a student’s capabilities. Lastly, a performance report sent home typically reflects a student’s achievement and understanding at a specific time, not an ongoing process like formative assessments advocate.

Thus, ongoing assessment during the learning process is the defining feature of formative assessment in physical education.