What is the most effective method for monitoring the progress of second-grade students in mathematics?

Conducting frequent curriculum-based assessments is the most effective method for monitoring the progress of second-grade students in mathematics because it allows educators to evaluate students' understanding of material in real-time. These assessments are designed to align closely with the curriculum and learning objectives, providing immediate insights into each student's strengths and areas that need improvement.

Frequent assessments facilitate timely feedback, enabling teachers to adjust instruction to meet students' needs effectively. This is especially important in mathematics, where concepts build on one another—early identification of misunderstandings allows for targeted interventions that can support student success. Thus, the ongoing nature of these assessments makes them particularly beneficial for tracking progress and making instructional decisions throughout the school year.

In contrast, final exams provide a snapshot of what students have learned at the end of a period, but they do not inform instruction during the learning process. Unstructured classroom observations may not yield concrete data on specific skills or areas of difficulty, potentially leading to subjective interpretations. Relying solely on standardized test scores offers a limited view of student progress and may not reflect daily learning or context-specific challenges faced by students. Therefore, the consistent use of curriculum-based assessments stands out as the most effective approach.