Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

How can written language be formally assessed in schools?

1. Using informal observation techniques

2. Employing teacher-created, district-mandated, and state-mandated assessments

3. Through peer evaluations

4. By using oral presentations

The correct answer is: Using informal observation techniques

The most effective way to formally assess written language in schools is by employing teacher-created, district-mandated, and state-mandated assessments. These assessments are structured evaluations that provide a standardized approach to measuring students' writing skills, ensuring that the evaluation is consistent and aligned with educational standards. These methods are rigorous and can include various forms of writing, such as essays, reports, and other written assignments, allowing teachers to assess both the content and mechanics of writing systematically. In contrast, informal observation techniques, peer evaluations, and oral presentations do not provide the same level of formal assessment needed for written language. Informal observations may lack the structure required for comprehensive assessment, and peer evaluations may not be consistent or objective enough to serve as a formal evaluation method. Oral presentations measure different skills, focusing more on speaking and listening rather than writing.