Words / C1

FORM-uh-tiv/ˈfɔːmətɪv/

Formative means having a strong influence on how someone or something develops; in assessment it means feedback for learning, not the final grade: formative years, formative assessment. Influential is a cousin; summative is the final-mark opposite in education; format (already in the dictionary) is layout — a lookalike. A smiley is not feedback that names the clause.

Meaning

Having a strong influence on development; of assessment, for learning not a final grade.

Examples

• “Formative feedback names the clause; a smiley face is not formative.”
• “Influential is a cousin. Summative is the exam/final mark. Formation (already in the dictionary) is the noun of forming. A sticker is morale. A clause is the work. Name the clause; keep the sticker for the fridge.”

Good to know

Shaping development (also: not the final mark). Contrast: summative. Lookalike: format (already in the dictionary). A smiley ≠ a named clause.

Near in meaning

influential

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