In progress monitoring, what is the purpose of tracking trends over time?

• A. To decide which students to exclude from class.
• B. To inform instructional adjustments and measure student growth.
• C. To determine teacher evaluations only.
• D. To replace all other assessments.

Answer: (B)

Tracking trends over time in progress monitoring shows how a student’s performance changes across multiple measurements, revealing whether current instruction and supports are helping. By looking at the pattern of data—the starting level and the rate of growth—you can decide if the student is making expected progress, if adjustments are needed, or if a different approach should be tried. This trend information guides instructional decisions, helps set realistic goals, and provides evidence of growth to share with families and the IEP team. It’s not about excluding students, not used for teacher evaluations only, and not a replacement for all other assessments; it’s a ongoing, data-driven way to tailor instruction and document learning progress. For example, a steady upward trend after a targeted intervention indicates the approach is effective and can continue, while a flat or declining trend signals a need to modify strategies.