Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

Which statement best describes the difference between formal and informal assessments?

1. Formal assessments are administered and scored in a standardized fashion, while informal assessments are scored subjectively.

2. Formal assessments are subjective, while informal assessments are standardized.

3. Formal assessments include observations, while informal assessments include written tests.

4. Formal assessments are used only for progress monitoring, while informal assessments are used to evaluate reading programs.

The correct answer is: Formal assessments are administered and scored in a standardized fashion, while informal assessments are scored subjectively.

The chosen statement accurately highlights the key distinction between formal and informal assessments. Formal assessments are designed to be consistent across different administrations, meaning they follow strict protocols for administration and scoring, which helps ensure reliability and comparability of results. These assessments typically include standardized tests where scoring is objective and based on predetermined criteria. In contrast, informal assessments are more flexible and can encompass a variety of methods, such as observations, discussions, and anecdotal records, which can be interpreted subjectively. These assessments are often used to gain insights into students' understanding and skills in a more natural context, allowing for a comprehensive view of their abilities beyond what a standardized test might reveal. The other options mischaracterize key aspects of formal and informal assessments or mix their definitions in a way that does not accurately reflect their purposes and characteristics.