This document discusses assessment for learning and formative assessment. It outlines the key principles of assessment for learning, including that it should be part of effective planning, focus on how students learn, and promote commitment to learning goals. The four basic elements of assessment for learning are sharing learning goals, effective questioning, self and peer evaluation, and effective feedback. Teachers should utilize strategies like these to understand students' progress and inform next steps in instruction. The overall goal of assessment for learning is to help both students and teachers know how to improve learning.