How is "summative assessment" best defined?

Summative assessment is best defined as evaluations conducted at the end of an instructional unit to measure student learning against established standards. This type of assessment is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the educational process after instruction has been completed, summarizing what students have learned and how well they meet the intended learning outcomes.

In a summative assessment, teachers typically use tools like final exams, end-of-term projects, or standardized tests, which help to determine whether students gained the intended knowledge and skills. These assessments contribute to the overall achievement records, providing a comprehensive picture of student learning and the effectiveness of the teaching methods used.

The other options refer to different types of assessments or evaluations. For instance, short quizzes given weekly relate to formative assessments, focused on ongoing monitoring of student progress. Discussions that evaluate engagement are also not summative, as they are typically more informal and aimed at gathering feedback rather than measuring end-of-unit learning. Similarly, informal feedback sessions are diagnostic in nature and help to guide instruction rather than evaluate it comprehensively at the unit's conclusion.