Which of the following statements best describes the purpose of summative assessments?

The purpose of summative assessments is to evaluate overall student learning and achievement at the end of an instructional period, such as a unit, course, or program. This type of assessment provides a comprehensive measure of what students have learned and how well they have met specific learning objectives. It typically takes place after instruction has concluded, allowing educators to gather data on student performance in order to assess the effectiveness of the teaching and learning process.

Summative assessments are often used for accountability purposes, such as determining grades or informing stakeholders about student progress. They can help identify areas where students excel or struggle and, subsequently, provide insight into curriculum effectiveness and instructional strategies. This evaluation is distinct from formative assessments, which are designed to monitor student learning and provide ongoing feedback during the instructional process.