Which of the following best describes formative assessment?

Formative assessment is fundamentally intended for the purpose of enhancing student learning rather than merely evaluating it. This type of assessment is ongoing and occurs throughout the learning process, allowing educators to identify areas where students may struggle and to adjust instruction accordingly. By focusing on the progress and understanding of students as they learn, formative assessments can lead to immediate feedback and support, ultimately fostering a more effective learning environment.

In contrast, final judgments of student performance, assessments only at the end of terms, and the exclusive use of standardized tests emphasize evaluation rather than improvement. These alternatives often focus on the outcomes rather than the ongoing process of learning, which is the crux of what formative assessment aims to achieve. Therefore, the characteristic of formative assessment as a tool to improve learning directly aligns with the correct answer.