The initial evaluation serves as a preliminary assessment. It is often designed to be a broad screen, identifying individuals who may require more in-depth analysis. For instance, a standardized reading assessment given at the beginning of the academic year to all students is a common example. This helps educators pinpoint those who may need additional support in literacy.
This type of assessment provides several advantages. It allows for the early detection of potential challenges, facilitating timely intervention. It also provides a baseline for measuring progress and the effectiveness of subsequent support strategies. Historically, such evaluations have evolved from informal teacher observations to standardized, data-driven procedures.
