What is the purpose of a "pre-assessment"?

The purpose of a pre-assessment is to gauge students’ prior knowledge and skills. By understanding what students already know before instruction begins, educators can tailor their teaching strategies and lesson plans to meet the specific needs of the students. This approach helps to identify gaps in understanding, misconceptions, or strengths that students bring to the learning environment. Consequently, it enables teachers to differentiate instruction effectively, ensuring that all students are engaged and able to progress in their learning.

Pre-assessments serve as a valuable tool for teachers, providing insights that can shape instructional planning and support the development of learning objectives that resonate with students' existing knowledge. They play a crucial role in fostering responsive assessment practices that prioritize student needs and learning growth.