Dynamic assessments are described as which type of formal assessment?

• A. Norm-referenced assessments
• B. Criterion-referenced assessments
• C. Dynamic assessments
• D. Informal checklists

Answer: (C)

Dynamic assessments measure learning potential by actively guiding the learner and watching how much they improve with instruction. They use a structured test-teach-test approach, with predefined prompts and a scoring scheme to quantify change after mediation. That focus on how a learner learns with support—rather than just what they already know—makes this a formal, procedure-driven method of assessment. It’s distinct from norm-referenced tests, which compare performance to a peer group, and from informal checklists, which are unstandardized observations. In short, dynamic assessments are a formal approach that centers on teaching and measuring growth with assistance.