New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

What characterizes informal assessments in educational settings?

1. They are always standardized and objective.

2. They involve subjective scoring and varied administration.

3. They are typically administered in multiple-choice format.

4. They primarily use quantitative data for evaluation.

The correct answer is: They involve subjective scoring and varied administration.

Informal assessments are characterized by their flexible and adaptable nature, often allowing for subjective scoring and varied administration techniques. These assessments can take many forms, such as observations, interviews, and performance tasks, which provide a broader understanding of a student's learning and abilities. The subjective scoring aspect means that the assessments may rely on the teacher's judgment and interpretation of a student's performance, rather than strictly adhering to standardized criteria. This can offer valuable insights into individual student needs and foster a more personalized approach to instruction and feedback. Unlike formal assessments that often take a standardized approach, informal assessments prioritize a more holistic view of a student's learning, making them particularly useful in understanding their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth. This flexibility and focus on individual student performance are what distinguish informal assessments from more rigid, conventional methods.