Sources of this information include quizzes, tests, exams, homework checks, major and minor projects, group work, observations, etc. The strategies of formal testing can include short answer and long answer tests, essays, research projects, examinations of all types, etc. It helps to create a more rounded profile of the student. Informal assessment strategies may include portfolios, peer and self assessment, games, observation, simulations, interviews, etc. The task is then judged against how successful the performance was, compared to the stated criteria.
Evaluation can generate decisions about instruction, content, next steps, curricula, etc.
Its purpose is to improve instruction and learning, rather than merely to rank or grade students. Students, teachers, and parents are aware of the objectives and the progress being made. The results are continually analyzed and used to redirect the efforts of the teacher and students. It is used with formative evaluation to determine student achievement and program effectiveness. This combined assessment of a student's achievement can be used to evaluate students for the purpose of reporting and to ascertain the degree to which course objectives have been met.