Formative Assessment: Guiding Learning, Not Just Grading

While high-stakes exams often dominate language education, formative assessment is essential for guiding learning and promoting development. Techniques such as peer feedback, self-assessment, and low-stakes quizzes provide ongoing insights into learners’ strengths and gaps. Unlike summative assessments, formative assessment emphasizes growth, allowing teachers to adjust instruction and learners to take ownership of their progress.

For example, using rubrics in speaking activities helps learners focus on specific skills such as fluency, vocabulary use, and pronunciation. Similarly, writing portfolios encourage reflection and improvement over time. By integrating formative assessment, language teachers create classrooms that support continuous improvement, motivation, and deeper understanding rather than focusing solely on grades.