400 Formative Assessment Examples [Complete Guide]

This guide is here to inspire you with creative, practical, and engaging formative assessment examples.

These examples are crafted to help you gauge learning in real time, adjust your instruction, and empower learners to take charge of their progress. To keep things organized, I’ve divided the 400 examples into 10 categories (each with 40 ideas) covering a wide range of assessment techniques—from quick quizzes to innovative digital tools.

Quick Quizzes and Polls

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A teacher In a classroom -- Formative Assessment Examples (1) — *I made this image with AI — Formative Assessment Examples*

Table of Contents

These formative assessment examples are quick, fun ways to check understanding on the fly.

They help you gauge comprehension instantly and adjust your session accordingly. Insider tip: Vary your question types—mix true/false, multiple-choice, and ranking questions—and use digital tools to collect responses in real time.

A quick true/false quiz on the main concept of the lesson.
A multiple-choice question to check understanding of key terminology.
A rapid poll asking learners to vote on the most important idea.
A one-question quiz using a digital clicker for instant feedback.
A quick fill-in-the-blank question on a critical definition.
A two-option multiple-choice quiz on the lesson’s objective.
A short true/false quiz to assess understanding of a process.
A digital poll on which concept was hardest to grasp.
A one-minute quiz using a mobile app to test key facts.
A quick ranking poll to order steps in a process.
A true/false question on the day’s vocabulary words.
A multiple-choice quiz on the implications of a concept.
A rapid poll asking for agreement with a statement.
A single-question digital quiz to review a previous lesson.
A quick fill-in-the-blank on a historical date or fact.
A two-option quiz asks learners to choose between two theories.
A true/false quiz on cause-and-effect relationships.
A digital poll about preferred learning styles related to the topic.
A one-question quiz on the significance of a key term.
A quick multiple-choice question on the steps of a process.
A rapid true/false check on an essential assumption.
A digital poll on which idea best illustrates the concept.
A one-minute quiz asking for the definition of a term.
A quick ranking activity to order key points in the lesson.
A two-option true/false quiz on a core concept.
A multiple-choice question on the application of a theory.
A digital poll on which graphic best represents the idea.
A quick fill-in-the-blank on a numerical fact or statistic.
A true/false question tests understanding of an argument.
A digital quiz on identifying key elements of a case study.
A rapid poll on which solution is most effective in a scenario.
A single-question multiple-choice quiz on the lesson’s summary.
A true/false question about the benefits of a method.
A digital poll asking which idea was most memorable.
A quick fill-in-the-blank on a critical statistic.
A two-option quiz on comparing two approaches.
A true/false quiz on identifying a misconception.
A digital poll to choose the best solution from a list.
A one-question quiz on recalling a key historical event.
A rapid-fire poll reviewing the lesson’s major takeaways.

Interactive Classroom Activities

The following formative assessment examples turn your session into an engaging, hands-on experience.

They encourage collaboration and active participation, making learning dynamic and enjoyable. Insider tip: Rotate group roles and encourage peer teaching to maximize engagement and deeper understanding.

A “think-pair-share” activity where learners discuss a concept before sharing with the class.
A group brainstorming session on how to apply a new idea.
A role-playing scenario simulates a real-life problem.
A quick round-robin discussion to share one new insight.
A jigsaw activity where each group teaches a portion of the lesson.
A collaborative mind-mapping exercise on a key topic.
A group debate on the merits of different approaches.
A gallery walk where learners review and comment on posters.
A small group discussion on case studies.
A live brainstorming session using sticky notes on a shared board.
An interactive simulation where groups solve a practical problem.
A group project to design a solution to a real-world challenge.
A peer teaching session where learners present mini-lessons.
A collaborative puzzle-solving activity based on lesson content.
A group role-play to act out different stakeholder perspectives.
A live polling session during group discussions.
A structured group discussion with rotating roles.
A collaborative annotation of a text using digital tools.
A small group design challenge on a topic from the lesson.
A team-based quiz game using an interactive app.
A paired discussion followed by a group share-out.
A collaborative case study analysis where groups solve a mystery.
A group mural that visually represents the lesson’s ideas.
A cooperative learning circle discussing real-life applications.
A roundtable discussion where each group member contributes a key idea.
A group activity where learners create a short skit to illustrate a concept.
A collaborative digital storytelling session on the lesson topic.
A group survey design exercise is used to collect opinions on a concept.
A cooperative board game that reinforces key lesson points.
A structured group feedback session using an online platform.
A collaborative problem-solving activity on a complex issue.
A peer-to-peer teaching session in small groups.
A group brainstorming session to generate alternative solutions.
A live collaborative document where groups compile key ideas.
A team-based digital scavenger hunt related to the lesson.
A group analysis of a video clip followed by discussion.
A breakout room discussion in an online training session.
A group reflection activity using guided questions.
A collaborative learning station rotation activity.
A live Q&A session within small groups to clarify doubts.

Digital Assessment Tools

Digital formative assessment examples harness the power of technology to create interactive and real-time assessments.

They focus the feedback process and offer immediate insights into learner progress.

Insider tips: Explore different platforms to find the best fit for your audience, and always run a tech check before the session.

Use an online quiz platform to conduct a rapid review quiz.
Integrate a real-time polling app for instant feedback.
Utilize interactive slide software to embed quiz questions.
Employ a digital flashcard tool for on-the-spot recall.
Create a Kahoot! quiz to energize a review session.
Use Socrative to run a live assessment during class.
Design a quiz on Google Forms for immediate feedback.
Use Poll Everywhere to gauge understanding in real time.
Embed multiple-choice questions in an interactive video.
Implement an online survey tool to collect student opinions.
Use a digital whiteboard for quick assessment activities.
Leverage an app-based quiz tool to challenge learners.
Integrate interactive game apps to review lesson content.
Use a digital breakout game to assess problem-solving skills.
Create a timed online quiz to review key concepts.
Use virtual flashcards for self-paced review sessions.
Employ an interactive infographic with embedded questions.
Use an online discussion forum for formative feedback.
Leverage a digital mind-mapping tool to assess understanding.
Use an interactive polling feature in your webinar software.
Integrate an assessment app to deliver instant quizzes.
Create a digital quiz that adapts to learner responses.
Use a virtual classroom tool to run a live Q&A quiz.
Embed short quizzes in your online course modules.
Use an educational app to create a gamified quiz experience.
Implement a digital simulation with assessment checkpoints.
Use breakout rooms in video calls for mini digital quizzes.
Create an interactive timeline with embedded quiz questions.
Use a mobile quiz app for spontaneous knowledge checks.
Integrate assessment questions in an online collaborative document.
Use an e-learning platform’s built-in quiz feature.
Create a digital crossword puzzle based on key concepts.
Use interactive polls to assess understanding after videos.
Employ a virtual quiz show format to review content.
Use digital role-play scenarios with assessment prompts.
Leverage a web-based survey to gauge learner confidence.
Integrate instant quizzes into your learning management system.

Peer Review and Collaborative Assessments

These formative assessment examples focus on peer-to-peer interaction and constructive feedback.

They promote critical thinking and help learners learn from one another. Insider tip: Use clear rubrics and structured guidelines to ensure feedback is focused and beneficial for everyone involved.

Organize a peer review session where learners exchange feedback on drafts.
Create a rubric-based peer assessment for group projects.
Facilitate small-group feedback sessions on written work.
Implement a structured peer critique on a presentation.
Use a peer review app to allow anonymous feedback.
Set up a rotation system where each learner reviews a peer’s work.
Organize a roundtable discussion for collaborative critique.
Use digital breakout rooms for peer feedback on projects.
Facilitate a peer discussion on strengths and areas for improvement.
Organize a “gallery walk” where peers leave sticky-note feedback.
Use a peer-editing checklist for collaborative review.
Implement a structured pair review for assignments.
Facilitate peer-to-peer video feedback sessions.
Organize a peer assessment workshop using shared rubrics.
Use an online forum for structured peer critique.
Implement a “two stars and a wish” feedback method in pairs.
Organize peer review groups for iterative project feedback.
Use a digital platform for collaborative comment exchanges.
Facilitate a peer-led discussion on a case study.
Use collaborative annotation tools for peer feedback on texts.
Organize a structured peer interview on learning progress.
Implement a peer rating system for class presentations.
Use a peer feedback form to review group discussion contributions.
Facilitate a peer-led critique session after a group activity.
Use a digital peer review tool for project proposals.
Organize a peer review round using a structured feedback template.
Facilitate a group discussion to critique each other’s work.
Use paired peer review to compare project outcomes.
Organize a collaborative critique session on creative projects.
Use an online collaborative platform for peer assessment.
Implement a peer feedback loop after each lesson module.
Organize a digital peer review of presentation slides.
Facilitate peer evaluations using a shared Google Doc.
Use structured peer observation during group work.
Organize a peer assessment session with live commentary.
Use a peer review checklist to guide feedback on essays.
Facilitate a peer critique session on design projects.
Organize peer groups to review a case study analysis.
Use a digital tool for structured peer feedback on ideas.
Facilitate a collaborative session where peers assess each other’s research proposals.

Self-Assessment and Reflection Activities

The formative assessment examples in this category invite learners to look inward and evaluate their own progress.

I like how they foster self-awareness and a mindset of continuous improvement. Insider tip: Provide open-ended reflection prompts and encourage learners to set personal goals to deepen their self-assessment.

Have learners complete a self-assessment checklist after a lesson.
Use reflective journaling to evaluate personal progress.
Ask learners to rate their understanding on a scale from 1 to 5.
Implement a “what I learned today” reflection form.
Use exit slips asking students to reflect on their strengths and weaknesses.
Encourage learners to set personal learning goals after each session.
Use digital self-assessment tools for instant reflection.
Have learners complete a reflective questionnaire on key concepts.
Ask for a written self-reflection on what went well and what could improve.
Use a self-rating chart for learners to mark their confidence levels.
Implement a “one thing I’d change” reflection activity.
Have students record a short video reflection on their learning.
Use a digital portfolio for learners to document self-assessment evidence.
Ask learners to complete a reflective quiz on their performance.
Use a “stop, start, continue” self-assessment exercise.
Have learners write a brief reflection on a challenging concept.
Use an online survey for self-assessment of understanding.
Ask learners to rate their participation and engagement in class.
Use reflective prompts in a digital discussion forum.
Have students create a mind map of what they learned and self-assess gaps.
Implement a daily self-check form to gauge emotional and cognitive readiness.
Ask learners to write a short reflective essay on a lesson topic.
Use a self-assessment rubric for project work.
Have learners complete a confidence meter activity online.
Use a reflective checklist to review group work contributions.
Ask learners to journal about a “lightbulb moment” in class.
Use digital reflection prompts after a video lesson.
Have students fill out a self-assessment form for a class discussion.
Use a peer and self-assessment combo for reflective practice.
Ask learners to identify one strength and one area for growth.
Use an interactive tool for rating lesson satisfaction.
Have students create a visual self-assessment of their progress.
Use a reflective questionnaire after completing an activity.
Ask learners to write a one-sentence reflection on their learning.
Use a digital self-assessment poll at the end of class.
Have learners compare their current understanding with past performance.
Use a “what surprised me” reflection activity.
Ask learners to rate the usefulness of the lesson’s activities.
Use a self-assessment matrix to identify learning barriers.
Have learners complete a reflective “learning diary” entry.

Exit Tickets and Minute Papers

These formative assessment examples are perfect for capturing key takeaways at the end of a session.

They offer a snapshot of what was learned and highlight areas that need further exploration. Insider tip: Keep the prompts simple and review responses to tailor your next session effectively.

Use an exit ticket asking for one key takeaway from the lesson.
Ask learners to write one question they still have as they exit.
Use a digital exit ticket to collect one new word learned.
Have learners jot down one application of the lesson in real life.
Use a minute paper to summarize the day’s learning in one minute.
Ask for a one-sentence summary on an exit slip.
Use a quick paper asking what part of the lesson was most engaging.
Ask learners to note one concept they found confusing.
Use an exit ticket that asks for one idea they’d like to explore further.
Have learners write down one challenge they overcame today.
Use a digital minute paper to capture final thoughts.
Ask learners to rate the lesson on a scale of 1–5 as they exit.
Use an exit ticket to ask for a prediction about the next lesson.
Have learners write one thing they learned that surprised them.
Use a digital form asking for one word that sums up the lesson.
Ask learners to describe one real-life connection they made.
Use a quick exit slip for learners to state one lingering question.
Have students write one improvement suggestion on a minute paper.
Use a digital ticket asking for a self-assessed level of understanding.
Ask learners to share one idea they plan to use later.
Use an exit ticket to capture one reflective thought on the lesson.
Have learners write one sentence about how the lesson connects to their goals.
Use a minute paper asking for one application idea from the lesson.
Ask learners to list one key term they learned today.
Use a digital exit ticket for one takeaway regarding process improvement.
Have learners jot down one insight about the lesson’s methodology.
Use an exit slip asking for one connection between lesson concepts.
Ask learners to note one emotional reaction to the lesson content.
Use a minute paper to ask what they found most practical.
Have learners share one suggestion for future lessons.
Use an exit ticket asking for one question to discuss next time.
Ask learners to write one prediction about upcoming topics.
Use a digital form to capture one idea that challenged their thinking.
Have learners note one way they plan to apply today’s learning.
Use a quick exit slip asking for one personal connection to the topic.
Ask learners to provide one piece of constructive feedback.
Use a minute paper to capture one word of encouragement for the instructor.
Have learners write one sentence reflecting on their progress.
Use an exit ticket asking for one idea to explore in extra reading.
Ask learners to state one commitment for applying the lesson’s content.

Project-Based Assessment Examples

Project-based formative assessment examples challenge learners to apply concepts through tangible projects.

They blend creativity with critical thinking and result in real-world outputs. Insider tip: Break projects into manageable phases and offer iterative feedback to help learners build confidence and competence.

Assign a project where learners create a digital presentation on a key concept.
Have learners develop a poster that illustrates lesson themes.
Ask learners to design a mini research project on a current issue.
Organize a project to build a prototype solution for a real-world problem.
Have learners create a video summarizing the lesson’s main points.
Ask for a group project that designs a creative infographic.
Have learners produce a podcast episode discussing key ideas.
Organize a project where learners write a case study analysis.
Ask learners to develop an interactive website on the lesson topic.
Have students create a digital portfolio showcasing their learning.
Assign a project to design a game that teaches the lesson’s concepts.
Ask learners to build a model representing the lesson’s process.
Have learners write a research paper connecting theory to practice.
Organize a project for creating a timeline of historical events related to the topic.
Ask learners to produce a documentary film on a relevant subject.
Have students develop a community action plan based on the lesson.
Organize a project to create a comprehensive case study portfolio.
Ask learners to design an interactive quiz game as a project.
Have learners create a research infographic using digital tools.
Assign a project to build a business plan incorporating lesson concepts.
Ask learners to develop a virtual museum exhibit on the topic.
Have students create a photo essay that reflects key lesson ideas.
Organize a project where learners design an educational app prototype.
Ask learners to produce a creative writing piece inspired by the lesson.
Have learners construct a mind map project that connects multiple ideas.
Organize a project to create a data visualization on relevant statistics.
Ask learners to design a social media campaign around a key topic.
Have students create a business simulation project incorporating lesson themes.
Organize a project for designing an educational board game.
Ask learners to produce a research poster for a mini-conference.
Have learners develop a digital storytelling project on the lesson.
Organize a project to create an animated explainer video.
Ask learners to design a case study report on a real-world scenario.
Have students build a virtual reality tour related to the lesson.
Organize a project for creating a series of educational blog posts.
Ask learners to produce a research briefing paper on the topic.
Have students develop an interactive map highlighting key events.
Organize a project to create a collaborative e-book on lesson content.
Ask learners to design a sustainable solution project based on the lesson.
Have students produce a final project that integrates multiple lesson themes.

Real-Time Feedback Techniques

These formative assessment examples provide instant insights during the learning process.

They enable you to pivot quickly based on learner input, keeping the session lively and responsive. Insider tip: Utilize interactive tools like live polls and digital whiteboards to capture and share feedback on the spot.

Use live digital polls to gather instant feedback during a lesson.
Implement a “raise your hand” digital feature to answer quick questions.
Use instant messaging apps for real-time Q&A during sessions.
Use a collaborative document for learners to post live questions.
Implement a virtual “one-minute paper” with immediate submission.
Use an interactive whiteboard to capture real-time ideas.
Employ live chat features during webinars for instant feedback.
Use digital breakout rooms with a shared feedback form.
Implement live annotation of slides with audience input.
Use real-time quiz apps to adjust teaching on the fly.
Employ a virtual “feedback wall” for spontaneous comments.
Use a real-time survey tool during video conferences.
Implement a live rating system for lesson clarity.
Use an interactive timeline that learners update in real time.
Employ a digital “thumbs up/down” system for instant reactions.
Use live polling to decide the next discussion topic.
Implement a real-time feedback tool embedded in your slides.
Use instant response tools to gauge understanding during demos.
Employ a live whiteboard session for group brainstorming.
Use a real-time feedback app to collect suggestions immediately.
Implement a digital “reaction bar” for instantaneous input.
Use live quizzes integrated into your presentation software.
Employ instant feedback through a classroom response system.
Use a real-time discussion board for immediate reflections.
Implement a live vote to decide on the case study analysis.
Use an interactive tool for live error analysis.
Employ a real-time checklist to track lesson understanding.
Use digital timers with feedback prompts during activities.
Implement a live comment stream for ongoing assessment.
Use a real-time survey to assess engagement levels.
Employ a live feedback loop during hands-on demonstrations.
Use an interactive polling feature to review key points.
Implement a digital “mood meter” for instant emotional feedback.
Use real-time assessment via an app-based quiz game.
Employ a live “question box” during lessons for immediate queries.
Use a real-time response system to monitor discussion quality.
Implement an interactive dashboard to display live feedback.
Use a live chat poll to determine the next steps in the lesson.
Employ a real-time word cloud generator for key term recall.
Use digital sticky notes in a live session for immediate reflections.

Group Discussion and Socratic Seminars

The following formative assessment examples leverage structured dialogue to deepen understanding and stimulate critical thinking.

They transform group discussions into insightful learning experiences.

Insider tip: Prepare thought-provoking questions in advance and create a safe space where every participant feels comfortable sharing their views.

Organize a Socratic seminar where learners discuss a provocative question.
Use small-group discussions to explore complex case studies.
Facilitate a guided debate on a controversial topic.
Use round-table discussions to explore multiple viewpoints.
Organize a fishbowl discussion for in-depth analysis.
Facilitate a panel discussion where learners rotate roles.
Use structured group dialogues on a challenging concept.
Organize a peer-led discussion circle on lesson applications.
Use a Socratic questioning technique in small groups.
Facilitate a group discussion with rotating moderators.
Organize a debate where each group defends a different perspective.
Use open-ended questions to guide a Socratic dialogue.
Facilitate a group discussion on the ethical implications of the topic.
Organize a panel discussion on real-life applications.
Use breakout groups to discuss a complex reading assignment.
Facilitate a structured discussion using a question ladder.
Organize a group dialogue to analyze a controversial case study.
Use Socratic circles to probe underlying assumptions.
Facilitate a group discussion with targeted probing questions.
Organize a debate that challenges conventional wisdom.
Use small-group discussions to develop critical questions.
Facilitate a peer-led seminar on the lesson’s key issues.
Organize a group critique of a complex argument.
Use Socratic questioning to delve deeper into a topic.
Facilitate a structured dialogue using evidence-based questions.
Organize a group discussion around a current event linked to the lesson.
Use breakout groups to explore multiple perspectives on a case study.
Facilitate a panel discussion to compare theoretical approaches.
Organize a small-group debate on the pros and cons of a concept.
Use guided questions to drive a reflective group discussion.
Facilitate a peer-led discussion on the impact of a key idea.
Organize a Socratic seminar to critique a published argument.
Use a discussion protocol to ensure every voice is heard.
Facilitate a group dialogue on applying theory to practice.
Organize a round-table discussion to synthesize lesson concepts.
Use open-ended prompts to spark a Socratic conversation.
Facilitate a group discussion focused on reflective questioning.
Organize a debate that requires evidence-based reasoning.
Use a peer discussion format to challenge common assumptions.
Facilitate a final group dialogue that summarizes the session.

Creative and Innovative Assessment Examples

These formative assessment examples break the mold by blending creativity with evaluation.

They not only assess understanding but also encourage innovative thinking and problem-solving. Insider tip: Celebrate creative approaches and encourage risk-taking, even if the outcomes aren’t perfect—innovation thrives on experimentation.

Have learners create a comic strip that explains a lesson concept.
Ask students to design a meme that captures the essence of the topic.
Organize a creative writing task linking theory to fiction.
Use digital storytelling to allow learners to narrate a concept.
Ask learners to produce a short video summarizing their understanding.
Have students design an infographic that illustrates key ideas.
Organize a photo essay project related to the lesson content.
Use art-based responses where learners draw a concept map.
Ask learners to create a song or rap about the lesson.
Have students produce a digital collage representing the topic.
Organize a creative debate using role-play and improvisation.
Use virtual reality simulations for immersive assessment.
Ask learners to design a board game that incorporates lesson ideas.
Have students create a fictional diary entry from a historical perspective.
Organize a design challenge to prototype an innovative solution.
Use augmented reality apps for interactive content review.
Ask learners to create a digital poster using creative software.
Have students develop a short animation explaining a complex idea.
Organize a creative project where learners design a futuristic scenario.
Use storytelling circles to share imaginative interpretations.
Ask learners to create a virtual museum exhibit on the lesson.
Have students design a social media campaign around the topic.
Organize a creative brainstorming session using mind-mapping software.
Use an interactive quiz in a game-show format with creative twists.
Ask learners to produce a creative podcast episode on the lesson.
Have students write a fictional news report about the topic.
Organize a digital art contest where learners illustrate key ideas.
Use creative writing prompts to generate reflective narratives.
Ask learners to design a futuristic solution to a current problem.
Have students create a virtual timeline using creative tools.
Organize a creative project where learners design an educational app.
Use role-playing games to simulate complex decision-making.
Ask learners to create an interactive story using digital tools.
Have students design a creative solution for a real-world challenge.
Organize a creative hackathon focused on solving a lesson-based problem.
Use a digital portfolio project where learners compile creative responses.

Watch this video for more formative assessment examples:

YouTube Video by Teachings in Education — Formative Assessment Examples

Final Thoughts: Formative Assessment Examples

Every learner is unique, and sometimes a small tweak in how we assess understanding can open up new possibilities for growth — not just for them, but for you as well.

Keep experimenting, stay curious, and most importantly, have fun with the process.