Which statement describes a performance task?

• A. Group activity without assessment
• B. Informal check-in
• C. Standardized test
• D. An assessment requiring students to apply knowledge and skills to a real-world task demonstrating proficiency

Answer: (D)

A performance task requires you to use what you’ve learned to complete a real-world activity, producing a product or performance that shows you can apply knowledge and skills and be judged against clear criteria. This kind of assessment focuses on authentic application and demonstrating proficiency in an actual context, not just recalling facts or completing an intermediate step.

That’s why the statement describing a performance task is the one about an assessment where students apply knowledge and skills to a real-world task to demonstrate proficiency. The other options describe activities or assessments that don’t necessarily require this kind of applied, real-world demonstration—group work without a formal assessment, informal check-ins, or standardized tests typically emphasize different formats or purposes.