Definition Formative assessment involves a continuous way of checks and balances in the teaching learning processes. The method allows teachers to frequently check their learners' progress and the effectiveness of their own practice, [5] thus allowing for self assessment of the student. Formative assessments are planned, ongoing assessments that can happen at any time during a lesson or unit. They’re integral to the learning process because they provide regular, frequent feedback about how students are learning. What is the difference between formative and summative assessment ? The goal of formative assessment is to monitor student learning to provide ongoing feedback that can be used by instructors to improve their teaching and by students to improve their learning. More specifically, formative assessments : Formative assessment can be conducted through a variety of methods, such as targeted questioning, exit questions and recap starter activities, or peer and self-assessment that promotes reflection and the sharing of knowledge. It is integrated and ongoing, moving away from marks, grades and levels.