National Evaluation Series (NES) Assessment of Professional Knowledge Practice Test

What type of assessment does Mr. Nunn use on the first day of school to gauge prior knowledge?

1. Summative.

2. Formative.

3. Norm-referenced.

4. Diagnostic.

The correct answer is: Diagnostic.

The type of assessment Mr. Nunn uses on the first day of school to gauge prior knowledge is diagnostic. This assessment is specifically designed to determine students' existing knowledge and skills before instruction begins. It helps educators identify areas where students may require additional support or enrichment, guiding future teaching strategies. In contrast, summative assessments occur at the end of an instructional period and evaluate overall learning effectiveness. Formative assessments are ongoing and carried out during the learning process to monitor student progress and inform instructional practices. Norm-referenced assessments compare students against each other, typically requiring a larger group sample. Diagnostic assessments, however, focus on individual understanding and readiness, making them particularly suited for Mr. Nunn's purpose on the first day of school.