Which type of assessment focuses on real-world tasks and performance?

The correct choice is authentic assessments because they are specifically designed to evaluate students' ability to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world contexts. This type of assessment goes beyond traditional tests and quizzes, focusing instead on practical tasks that replicate the challenges and complexities of actual scenarios students might face outside of the classroom.

For example, an authentic assessment might require a student to create a portfolio, conduct a science experiment, or engage in a project that addresses a real-world problem. This form of assessment not only measures students' understanding but also encourages higher-order thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success in life and work environments.

Other assessment types like formative assessments are primarily used to monitor student learning and provide ongoing feedback to improve instruction and learning. Summative assessments evaluate student learning at the end of an instructional unit, typically through standardized tests, while diagnostic assessments are used to determine students’ strengths and weaknesses before instruction begins. Since these approaches are focused on either ongoing feedback, end-of-unit evaluation, or pre-instruction analysis, they do not center on applying skills in real-world tasks like authentic assessments do.