New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

Why is it important for assessments to be tailored based on observation?

1. It focuses on group averages

2. It ensures instruction is relevant to individual needs

3. It aims to avoid any intervention for advanced readers

4. It eliminates the need to track ongoing progress

The correct answer is: It ensures instruction is relevant to individual needs

Tailoring assessments based on observation is crucial because it allows teachers to customize their instructional approaches to meet the specific needs of individual students. Observational assessments provide insight into a child's learning style, strengths, weaknesses, and interests. This personalized understanding enables educators to design targeted interventions and supports, ensuring that instruction is relevant and effective for each learner. By focusing on individual needs, educators can address gaps in knowledge or skills and foster a more engaging and meaningful learning experience, which enhances overall student development and achievement. In contrast, focusing on group averages may overlook the unique abilities of each student and hinder personalized instruction. Aiming to avoid intervention for advanced readers does not utilize the potential of observational assessments to challenge and stretch those students further. Lastly, while tracking ongoing progress is essential for formative assessment practices, eliminating this need would not be beneficial for fostering growth. Thus, ensuring instruction is relevant to individual needs stands out as the key reason for tailoring assessments based on observation.