Which example best represents a summative assessment?

• A. End-of-unit project that demonstrates mastery.
• B. Daily exit ticket.
• C. Quick poll at start of class.
• D. Ongoing observation notes.

Answer: (A)

Summative assessments are final evaluations that determine what students have learned after instruction, often used to assign grades for a unit or course. An end-of-unit project fits this purpose because it requires students to integrate and apply everything they've learned, showing mastery of the unit’s objectives in a culminating product. It provides evidence of overall understanding and is typically graded as part of the unit grade.

The other examples are formative assessments. A daily exit ticket gives quick feedback on what was understood in that session and helps adjust upcoming instruction. A quick poll at the start of class checks prior knowledge or pre-assessment needs. Ongoing observation notes track progress over time to inform teaching. These are used to guide instruction rather than to provide a final measure of mastery.