What assessment method typically identifies specific areas where a student may need additional instruction?

The assessment method that typically identifies specific areas where a student may need additional instruction is formative assessment. This approach involves ongoing evaluations of student understanding during the instructional process. By utilizing formative assessments, educators can gather immediate feedback about a student's grasp of material, identify strengths and weaknesses, and adjust their teaching strategies accordingly. These assessments can take many forms, including quizzes, feedback on assignments, interactive discussions, and even informal observations during lessons.

Formative assessments are particularly effective because they are designed to be used as teaching tools rather than merely for grading purposes. They provide both the student and the teacher with insight into where the student may be struggling or excelling, allowing for timely intervention or enrichment. This targeted approach is essential for fostering a deeper understanding and addressing individual learning needs effectively.

In contrast, standardized testing typically measures student achievement at a broader scale without focusing on individual learning gaps, screening/indicator assessments may provide a general overview of potential issues but do not delve deeply into specific instructional needs, and observation, while valuable for gathering qualitative data, may not systematically identify areas requiring focused instructional strategies.