When tests are used for determining final grades after a unit of study, what type of evaluation is being used?

The evaluation being used to determine final grades after a unit of study is summative evaluation. This type of evaluation is designed to assess student learning at the conclusion of a specific instructional period, such as the end of a unit or course. It focuses on the outcomes of the educational process and is typically measured through tests, projects, or other forms of assessment that provide a comprehensive overview of what students have learned.

In this context, summative evaluations provide critical feedback about the effectiveness of the instruction and the extent to which learning objectives have been met. They serve to summarize students' achievement levels, which ultimately inform grading decisions. This type of evaluation contrasts with formative evaluation, which occurs during the learning process with the aim of improving student understanding and skills before the final assessment.