How can teachers assess student understanding during a lesson?

Teachers can assess student understanding during a lesson through informal questioning and observations because this approach allows for real-time feedback. By asking targeted questions, teachers can gauge students' comprehension and clarify misunderstandings immediately. Observations provide insights into how students engage with the material, their participation levels, and their ability to apply concepts in practice. This dynamic form of assessment creates opportunities for teachers to adjust their instruction based on student responses and needs, fostering a more responsive and effective learning environment.

In contrast, graded assignments at the end of a lesson or standardized tests typically measure learning that has already occurred rather than monitoring comprehension in the moment. Written evaluations, while useful, may not capture the nuances of student understanding and can limit interactions that elucidate how well students are grasping the material as it is being taught. Informal assessment practices facilitate ongoing dialogue and help create a more engaging classroom atmosphere.