What type of assessment uses students' real-life tasks to gauge their skills?

Performance-based assessment is designed to measure students' skills through the completion of real-life tasks and activities that simulate actual scenarios they may encounter. This type of assessment emphasizes the application of knowledge and abilities in practical contexts, allowing educators to evaluate not just what students know, but how they can use that knowledge effectively.

In a performance-based assessment, students might be asked to engage in projects, presentations, or simulations that mirror real-world challenges. This approach helps to provide a deeper understanding of a student’s capabilities, as it often requires critical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to work collaboratively.

The other types of assessment listed typically have different focal points. For instance, oral proficiency assessments concentrate specifically on a student's speaking and listening skills, while formative assessments are generally aimed at monitoring student learning for the purpose of improving instruction. Informal assessments often lack a structured format and may not always focus on real-life application. Performance-based assessment, therefore, is distinct in its approach by connecting evaluation directly with practical, real-world tasks.