Which type of test is given at the beginning of instruction to establish a student's current level of knowledge?

The correct answer is prescriptive testing, which is designed to assess a student's current level of knowledge at the beginning of instruction. This type of assessment helps instructors understand what students already know and where there may be gaps in their understanding. By determining the baseline knowledge, instructors can tailor their teaching strategies and content to meet the specific needs of the students. This allows for a more effective and personalized learning experience.

In contrast, innovative tests are usually aimed at measuring new ideas or methods but do not specifically establish current knowledge levels. Summative tests evaluate students' knowledge and skills at the end of an instructional period, rather than at the beginning. Administrative tests are generally concerned with general administrative needs and processes rather than assessing individual knowledge levels. Thus, prescriptive testing stands out as the method specifically designed for the purpose of assessing prior knowledge to inform instruction.