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Why should we have standardized testing?
While not perfect, state standardized tests give us something critically important—comparable data based on state learning standards—that allow us to make informed decisions about student, school and district level needs.
What is standardized test example?
Once known as the Scholastic Aptitude Test, the SAT is one of the most well-known and commonly administered standardized tests in the United States. Most high school juniors and seniors take the SAT or the PSAT (Preliminary SAT), as it is a common requirement for admission to college.
What should be in place of standardized tests?
Instead of using standardized tests, these alternative methods have evolved that can take their place:
- Multiple measures.
- Portfolios.
- Sampling.
- Game-based assessment.
- Social and emotional skills surveys.
- Inspections.
- Low-stakes testing.
What states have standardized testing?
Standardized Tests by State
| State | Standardized Test | Abbrev. |
|---|---|---|
| California | Standardized Testing and Reporting | STAR |
| Colorado | Colorado Student Assessment Program | CSAP |
| Connecticut | Connecticut Mastery Test Connecticut Academic Performance Test | CMT CAPT |
| Delaware | Delaware Student Testing Program | DSTP |
How are tests standardized?
A standardized test is a method of assessment built on the principle of consistency: all test takers are required to answer the same questions and all answers are graded in the same, predetermined way. Most standardized tests consist of multiple choice and true or false questions.
What are your concerns about taking standardized tests?
Opponents argue that standardized tests only determine which students are good at taking tests, offer no meaningful measure of progress, and have not improved student performance, and that the tests are racist, classist, and sexist, with scores that are not predictors of future success.
How do you make standardized tests better?
Standardized Tests: Two Proven Ways to Raise Test Scores
- Build “cognitive flexibility” with metacognitive strategies.
- Teach the curriculum, not “to the test.” Teaching “to the test” –also known as “item teaching”– actually lowers test scores; it promotes narrow, rigid thinking.
Does every state have a standardized test?
While each state’s implementation and use of standardized tests has its critics, most educational experts agree that testing is a measure of how well students comprehend and apply knowledge. And with a student-paced curriculum, children can move through education grade levels faster and accelerate learning.
What is the best standardized test?
Stanford Achievement Test
The Stanford Achievement Test is also a top-rated standardized test. It is believed by many to be the most rigorous tests of the three. The reading comprehension portion of the tests requires more inductive reasoning skills according, and averages about 45 minutes to complete each test.