Diagnostic assessment is used to do what?

• A. Identify specific strengths and weaknesses
• B. Determine handwriting quality
• C. Measure student engagement
• D. Determine teacher workload

Answer: (A)

Diagnostic assessment is used to uncover what a learner can do and where they need help, so teachers can tailor instruction. By identifying specific strengths and weaknesses, educators can design targeted supports, choose appropriate activities, and group students to address gaps. This is usually done at the start of a unit or when a student is new to a program to establish starting points and guide learning goals. It’s not about measuring handwriting quality, student engagement, or teacher workload, which fall outside the purpose of diagnosing a learner’s specific skill needs. In early literacy, for example, a diagnostic assessment might check phonemic awareness, letter-sound knowledge, decoding, and fluency to map an individualized instruction plan.