# Formative vs summative assessment: what's the difference?

> Formative assessment checks learning while it happens; summative assessment measures it at the end. Here are examples of each and how to balance them.

Learn · Glossary

Formative assessment checks learning while it's happening, to guide what comes next. Summative assessment measures learning at the end of a unit or course, usually for a grade.

- Page: https://sparkmentis.ai/learn/formative-vs-summative-assessment

## Examples

- **Formative.** Exit tickets, quick quizzes, homework with feedback, a question in class.
- **Summative.** Unit tests, term exams, board exams, final projects.

## Getting the balance right

Formative assessment only works if feedback is quick. That's where marking time hurts most, and where AI marking with teacher review helps.

## Questions

**Is homework formative?**

Usually, when it comes back with feedback.

**Can one test be both?**

Yes, if its results are used to guide teaching as well as to grade.

## Related

- [What is continuous assessment?](https://sparkmentis.ai/learn/continuous-assessment.md): Glossary
- [SparK-12: Homework and assignments](https://app.sparkmentis.ai/features/homework): Set, collect and mark work in one place
- [SparK-12: AI marking](https://app.sparkmentis.ai/features/ai-marking): Suggested marks with reasons, released by people

## Book a demo

Email info@sparkmentis.ai (subject "SparkMentis demo request") with your organization, your role and the products you're interested in.