Which term describes an assessment used to measure knowledge in academic content areas and to inform placement decisions?

• A. Achievement test
• B. Formative assessment
• C. Psychological assessment
• D. Aptitude test

Answer: (A)

An achievement test is designed to measure what students know and can do in specific academic content areas, such as reading, math, or science. The results show current knowledge and skills, and are used to guide placement decisions, like what grade level or course is appropriate.

Formative assessments are ongoing checks during instruction to improve learning, not to decide placement. Psychological assessments focus on cognitive abilities, personality, or mental health rather than content knowledge for placement. Aptitude tests gauge potential to learn future skills, not current mastery of subject-mpecific content.