Child Development Associate (CDA) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CDA Practice Questions and Study Guide

A standardized test is classified as a formal assessment tool because it follows a set procedure and structure, which ensures that all test-takers are evaluated consistently. These tests are designed to measure specific skills or knowledge in an objective manner, often against a fixed set of criteria or norms. The formal nature of standardized tests includes the development of clear instructions, a specified format, and established scoring methods, which all contribute to the reliability and validity of the assessment.

By contrast, informal assessment tools might rely on observations or anecdotal records, lacking the structured procedure that defines standardized tests. Sequential learning assessments typically focus on progression through learning stages rather than measuring knowledge at a specific point in time like standardized tests do. Subjective evaluation methods can vary widely depending on the evaluator's personal opinions or interpretations, whereas standardized tests aim for impartiality by adhering to predetermined standards. Hence, identifying standardized tests as formal assessment tools is justified by their systematic and objective assessment characteristics.