Using tests | Principles of assessment for learning

A photograph of a male student in school uniform working individually at a desk

Source: © monkeybusinessimages / Getty Images

Hints and guidance on how to use tests in the classroom as a formative exercise to actively involve your students in their learning.

Using tests in a formative setting can present valuable opportunities to support students’ learning and provide meaningful feedback. They can be used to provide snapshots of students’ progress, identify gaps, aid revision and familiarise students with the standards and requirements of summative assessments.

Find out how to use feedback to promote your students’ learning and development.

Thanks for using the RSC’s education resources. You can view one resource per month as a visitor, or two resources per month when you’re logged in with a personal account.

A photograph of a teacher standing in a white lab coat, speaking with a class of children in a laboratory, is superimposed on a colourful background. Text reads "Teach Chemistry means support for classroom and staff room".

Register for Teach Chemistry for free, unlimited access

Registration is open to all teachers and technicians at secondary schools, colleges and teacher training institutions in the UK and Ireland.

Get all this, plus much more: 

unlimited access to resources, core practical videos and Education in Chemistry articles
teacher well-being toolkit, personal development resources and online assessments
applications for funding to support your lessons

Set up your Teach Chemistry account

Already a Teach Chemistry member? Sign in now.

Not a science teacher or technician based in the UK or Ireland? Don’t worry – you can also access all our resources with Royal Society of Chemistry membership.