Which term is used for assessments at the start of instruction?

• A. Prescriptive
• B. Formative
• C. Summative
• D. Diagnostic

Answer: (A)

Assessments at the start of instruction are used to uncover what students already know and where they struggle, so you can tailor the plan accordingly. This is a diagnostic assessment, designed to diagnose learners’ starting point and identify misconceptions before teaching begins. Formative assessments happen during instruction to monitor progress and adjust teaching. Summative assessments occur after instruction to evaluate overall learning. Prescriptive isn’t the standard label for this initial evaluation. Therefore, the term used for assessments at the start of instruction is diagnostic.