What is the difference between assessment and evaluation? Why are authentic assessments important?

Assessment:The evaluation or estimation of the nature, quality, or ability of someone or something
Evaluation:Act of ascertaining or fixing the value or worth of.
Authentic Assessment is important because it asks the students to complete real world tasks.

Do the formative assessments in the lesson assist the teacher in tracking students' progress toward constructing the lesson's major concepts? How?

I think formative assessments do help the teacher in tracking a students progeress because it can be done in the form of Observation, Journal, Check for Understanding, questions, Note-taking Pads, Thumbs up/down. It is for the teacher to keep a record of the students so they can go over what needs to be completed.

As you reflect on this chapter and what you see in the field placements for the program courses and what you read in the news, articles, or hear on the radio, does it appear that standardized testing impacts what and how things are taught in the schools? What needs to be changed in how students are taught and assessed in today's schools?

Sadly teacher's have to teach to the test and there is no room for "fun." I always hear that the state tests control the way the classroom works because there is sucha  pressure on teachers to make sure the studetns pass. I think there should be less standardize testing in schools becaause the studetns don't have anny room to breath.