What does formative evaluation involve in the context of ESOL instruction?

Formative evaluation in the context of ESOL instruction is focused on ongoing assessments to monitor student progress throughout the learning process. This method allows educators to gather feedback about student understanding and skills as they develop, which can then inform instruction and guide lesson planning. Rather than being a final measure of achievement, such as a summative test, formative evaluation occurs continuously, enabling teachers to make adjustments in real-time to better support learners.

By implementing various formative evaluation techniques—such as classroom observations, informal quizzes, peer reviews, and reflective journals—teachers can identify areas where students may be struggling and provide targeted assistance. This approach fosters a supportive learning environment where students feel more engaged and capable as they see their progress over time. The emphasis on continuous improvement is crucial, especially in a language learning context, where incremental gains are often key to success.