Argumentative Essay: The Use Of Standardized Testing In Schools

Standardized testing is used in most schools and institutions. These are tests that are all identical in testing of the subject matter, and all administered and recorded in a consistent method. Standardized tests usually have multiple-choice, or true or false questions, and testers are given a certain amount of time to answer all the problems. Standardized testing is usually used to compare the performance of students in a relative manner. Many people consider standardized testing as a fair way of grading a student, since computerized scoring removes any kind of possible bias. Millions are spent on these tests, such as the ACT and SAT, every year since these need to be taken in order for admission into most higher education institutions. Although

Although a bit of competition is considered healthy, too much of it can be dangerous. Standardized testing increases rates on cheating amongst students, until they get caught, since all of them answer the same set of questions. Test anxiety, which is a psychological condition where individuals experience extreme distress can cause mind block in learning and hurt test performance. This is very common amongst students who take standardized tests. Also, when students receive low scores, they feel demotivated and discouraged to try harder because their scores are being compared to other students, and they are all being ranked against each other.

Although standardized testing is commonly used in most schools and educational intuitions nowadays, it does not measure a student’s intelligence. As such, standardized testing should be revoked because, not only is it an unreliable way of measuring a student’s performance, it also pressures educators and creates a grade conscious mindset. Schools should focus more on the development of students, rather than ranking them based on the grades they receive on a test. Not only are standardized tests an undependable way of grading, but also, it does not promote life skills the student will need when growing