What is the first step in the four stages of formative assessment?

The first step in the four stages of formative assessment is goal setting for content and literacy. This initial stage is critical as it establishes clear learning objectives and expectations for students. By setting specific goals, educators can provide direction for what students need to learn and achieve. This foundation supports the subsequent stages, where assessment measures student understanding, instruction is tailored based on those assessments, and feedback is given to help students progress.

Goal setting aligns with effective instructional practices by providing students with a roadmap. When students understand what they are working toward, they can better monitor their own learning and engage with the material. This approach fosters a growth mindset, encouraging students to take ownership of their learning journey from the very beginning.