For what purpose are class polls commonly used in informal assessments?

Class polls serve as a valuable tool in informal assessments primarily to gauge student interest and understanding of the material. Through polls, educators can quickly gather feedback on how well students grasp specific concepts, identify areas that may need further clarification, and understand their preferences regarding instructional methods or topics. This feedback allows teachers to adapt their instruction in real-time, creating a more responsive learning environment that aligns with students' needs and interests.

The other options, while related to classroom dynamics, do not capture the primary function of class polls in informal assessments. Assigning homework based on student preferences focuses more on the homework design process rather than immediate assessment feedback. Preparing students for standardized testing involves a more structured approach that typically requires formal assessments rather than informal polling. Designing the final curriculum is a broader, long-term task that surveys much more than the immediate reactions or understanding of students regarding specific lessons or materials.