The document defines key terms related to student performance measurement: achievement refers to measuring student performance against standards; assessment involves gathering information about student achievement through various tools; evaluation makes judgments about student achievement over time primarily to communicate performance. Other terms defined include grade, mark, summative assessment, diagnostic assessment, and formative assessment.

1. The demonstration of student performance
measured against established criteria
Achievement (performance standards).
Gathering and interpreting information about
student achievement using a variety of tools and
Assessment techniques. It is the act of describing student
performance, primarily for the purpose of
enhancing learning.
Making judgments about the quality of student
achievement over a period of time, primarily for
Evaluation the purpose of communicating student
achievement.
Grade The number related at the end of a period of time

2. as a summary statement of student performance.
The “score” (number) given on any single test or
performance.
Mark
Assessment designed to provide information about
a student’s achievement at the end of a period of
Summative assessment instruction.
Diagnostic assessment Assessment usually carried out prior to instruction
that is designed to determine a student’s attitude,

3. skills, or knowledge in order to identify specific
student needs.
Assessment designed to provide direction for
improvement and/or adjustment to a program for
Formative assessment individual students or for a whole class.