Which type of assessment is best for evaluating a student's cumulative knowledge at the end of an instructional unit?

Summative assessment is designed specifically to evaluate a student's cumulative knowledge and understanding of the material at the end of an instructional unit. This type of assessment typically occurs after instruction has been completed and is used to measure what students have learned over that period. It provides a comprehensive overview of student learning and is often used for assigning grades or determining if specific learning objectives have been met.

In contrast, formative assessment occurs during the instructional process and aims to monitor student learning, providing ongoing feedback to enhance teaching and learning. Diagnostic assessment is used to determine students' prior knowledge or specific learning needs before instruction begins. Performance assessment focuses on the application of skills and knowledge in real-world or practical scenarios, often involving projects or presentations. These types do not specifically measure cumulative knowledge after instruction, making summative assessment the most appropriate choice for evaluating overall student achievement at the conclusion of an instructional unit.