1.1 Describe what is meant by formative assessment and how this shapes teaching and learning so that children develop the broad range of skills, knowledge and attitudes they need as foundations for future progress

This guide will help you answer 1.1 Describe what is meant by formative assessment and how this shapes teaching and learning so that children develop the broad range of skills, knowledge and attitudes they need as foundations for future progress.

Formative assessment is a term you’ll often encounter in your role as an Early Years Practitioner. It refers to the continuous process of gathering, analysing, and using information about a child’s learning and development during activities. This type of assessment helps adults tailor teaching and learning experiences to meet the individual needs of children. Unlike summative assessment, which summarises learning at the end of a period, formative assessment happens in real-time and supports ongoing progress.

Formative assessment isn’t about testing. It’s about observing, asking questions, and interacting with children to understand how they are developing. It’s a flexible process that allows practitioners to respond to children’s needs immediately, helping them reach their potential.

What is Formative Assessment?

Formative assessment plays a key role in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). It helps children develop the skills, knowledge, and attitudes they need for lifelong learning. Every child is unique. They learn in different ways, at different speeds, and have different interests. By using formative assessment, Early Years Practitioners can adapt teaching strategies, resources, and activities to suit each child’s individual progress.

When this process is done effectively, it:

• Encourages children to stay engaged and motivated by meeting their interests.
• Supports early identification of areas where a child may need extra help.
• Helps build a secure foundation for school and beyond by nurturing curiosity, problem-solving skills, and resilience.
• Promotes a sense of achievement as children see their progress.

How Formative Assessment Works in Practice

Observation is at the heart of formative assessment. Practitioners spend time watching children and noting how they interact with the environment, others, and the materials available. These observations can be formal or informal.
Examples include:

• Watching a child build a tower with blocks and noting their problem-solving method when it topples.
• Listening as children role-play to assess their communication and social skills.
• Discussing their artwork with them to understand their thought process.

These observations are then linked to the EYFS framework’s learning areas, such as communication and language or physical development.

Practitioners use this information to decide:

• What the child has already learned or achieved.
• What support they need to take the next step.

Reflecting on observations enables practitioners to plan meaningful activities that stretch a child’s abilities. It helps identify their strengths and where they may need guidance.

Shaping Teaching and Learning Using Formative Assessment

One of the benefits of formative assessment is that it makes teaching more responsive. Rather than following a rigid curriculum, practitioners can plan activities that align with a child’s current interests and developmental stage.

For example:

• If a child shows an interest in animals, practitioners can encourage learning through activities focused on animal sounds, habitats, or counting animal toys.
• If a child is struggling with fine motor skills, activities can include threading beads, drawing, or using small tools to build their strength and coordination.

By adapting teaching based on assessment, practitioners make learning relevant and engaging. Activities that match a child’s interests are more likely to capture their attention and motivate them to participate.

Supporting Skill Development

Children develop critical skills during the early years that lay the foundation for future learning. These include communication, problem-solving, self-regulation, creativity, and social interaction. Through formative assessment, practitioners can ensure children are building these skills.

For example:

• If a child is non-verbal or has limited speech, practitioners might focus on developing their communication through strategies like signing, picture cards, or songs.
• If a child is not engaging with peers, they might arrange small group activities to encourage relationships.

These focused interactions help children strengthen their abilities in ways that fit their developmental level.

Encouraging Self-Regulation and Independence

Formative assessment involves sharing findings with children through feedback. Positive and constructive feedback encourages them to reflect on their actions. It helps children recognise their achievements and work on areas they find challenging.

For instance:

• A practitioner might say, “You tried really hard to balance those blocks. How could we stop them from falling?”
• This helps the child think critically and builds independence as they begin solving problems themselves.

Helping children understand their progress fosters confidence and a love for learning.

Involving Parents and Carers

Parents and carers play a big part in their child’s development. Practitioners can use formative assessment to keep families informed about their child’s achievements and areas for growth. They might share observations during daily handovers or more formal meetings.

Suggestions can include simple activities at home to reinforce learning. For example:

• Reading together to develop literacy skills.
• Playing counting games to support numeracy.
• Practising dressing for self-care and physical skills.

When parents are involved, children often make more consistent progress.

Documenting and Reviewing Progress

While formative assessment is done in the moment, records are often kept to track progress over time. Some settings use tools like learning journals or digital platforms to store observations, photos, and practitioner reflections.

These records help practitioners:

• Build a clear picture of the child’s development.
• Recognise patterns or areas of concern.
• Plan effective next steps.

It also ensures that all team members have access to the same information, providing consistent support for the child.

Adapting to Individual Needs

Early Years settings welcome children from diverse backgrounds with varying abilities. Some may require extra help due to additional needs, English as an Additional Language (EAL), or a challenging home environment.

Through formative assessment, practitioners can recognise these needs early. This allows them to work with other professionals or include targeted interventions. For example:

• Referring a child for speech and language therapy if delays are identified.
• Using visual aids for children with limited English.
• Offering a quiet space for a child who feels overwhelmed in a busy room.

Adapting approaches ensures every child has equal learning opportunities.

The Development of Knowledge and Attitudes

Children’s attitudes towards learning begin in the early years. Positive experiences shape their curiosity, resilience, and eagerness to try again when faced with challenges.

Formative assessment shows practitioners how to model behaviours and attitudes that encourage children to build confidence. Activities can encourage persistence, teamwork, and creativity. For example:

• A child trying to complete a tricky puzzle could be gently encouraged, helping them feel a sense of accomplishment when they succeed.
• Group challenges, like building a large model together, help children practise patience and teamwork.

Identifying Barriers to Progress

Sometimes children may not progress as expected. Formative assessment helps identify these barriers early. For example:

• A child may struggle to focus due to tiredness or hunger.
• They might find social situations difficult because of anxiety.

Recognising these issues allows practitioners to address them sensitively.
This might involve changing routines, introducing calming activities, or offering emotional support.

Final Thoughts

Formative assessment is an essential tool for Early Years Practitioners. It supports high-quality teaching and helps children achieve their potential. Through observation, reflection, and flexible planning, practitioners can provide tailored learning experiences. These experiences help children develop the skills, knowledge, and attitudes they need for future success.

By using formative assessment effectively, you can make a real difference in each child’s journey. Always stay focused on their needs and progress, and remember to communicate regularly with both the child and their family. As you practice and improve this assessment method, you’ll see the benefits it brings—not just to the children, but to your role as a practitioner too.