What is one common form of informal assessment?

Observations during class activities are a common form of informal assessment because they allow teachers to gauge students' understanding, engagement, and interactions in a natural learning environment. This method is unstructured and can occur spontaneously while instruction is taking place. Teachers can collect valuable information on student behaviors, group dynamics, and individual participation, which helps them make real-time adjustments to their teaching strategies.

On the other hand, standardized tests and mid-term exams are formal assessments that measure students' knowledge against a fixed set of criteria, often in a standardized format. Homework assignments can also be seen as formal assessments, as they usually have specific grading criteria and are often submitted for evaluation. Observations, however, provide a more nuanced and immediate perspective on student learning and development, making them a vital part of a teacher’s assessment toolkit.