Formative vs Summative Assessment in DepEd: When and How to Use Each
Formative assessment checks learning during instruction and is not graded — it informs your next teaching move. Summative assessment measures learning after instruction and feeds the grade through Written Works, Performance Tasks, and the Quarterly Assessment under DepEd Order 8, s. 2015.
Two different jobs
Formative assessment answers “do they get it yet?” while class is in motion — think exit tickets, whiteboard responses, one-sentence summaries, quick oral checks. Summative assessment answers “how much did they learn?” after a unit — the quizzes, projects, performances, and exams that appear in your class record.
Formative techniques that take under five minutes
- Exit ticket — one question answered on a slip before dismissal.
- Thumb check with justification — self-rating plus one reason.
- Muddiest point — learners name the most confusing idea.
- Mini-whiteboards — whole-class simultaneous answers you can scan in seconds.
Use the results the same day: reteach, regroup, or move on. That decision is the entire point — and it powers differentiation.
Designing summative assessments properly
Summative tools must map to the competencies actually taught — build tests from a table of specifications so coverage matches instruction. Then classify each summative task into the correct component before grade computation.
The balance to aim for
A common failure mode is over-testing: everything graded, nothing formative. Flip the ratio — frequent ungraded checks, fewer but better-designed graded assessments. Learners take more risks when not every answer costs points.
Frequently asked questions
Are formative assessments recorded in the class record?
They may be noted for tracking progress, but they are not included in grade computation under DepEd Order 8, s. 2015.
How many summative assessments are required per quarter?
The policy prescribes minimum numbers of written works and performance tasks per learning area each quarter; check the tables in the order for your subject.
Can a performance task be a group activity?
Yes, but grading should capture individual contribution against the competency, typically through rubrics with individual criteria.