Standardized Testing Essay

Standardized Testing: Examinations That Prove Nothing:

One of the reasons why standardized tests are used is for measuring a child’s scholastic performance. But how accurately do they do this? A standardized test is made up of consistent questions and procedures for scoring and administration. They are always made according to identical rules so the procedures are the same for everybody who takes the tests. They come in many forms: on paper, on computer, questionnaires, etc. These tests are very contentious because many people have different opinions about them. Some critics feel that the tests help parents and teachers act as guides to assist students on expanding their knowledge in a particular subject. They are also needed to enter Ivy- League schools which further explains why international schools and schools in the United States take them. However, most do argue that these tests do not take into consideration a child’s traits and what the child can give. The tests judge students based on their performance on that day, not on their growth as educational participants, and places many in stressful situations due to the amount of studying needed to prepare for the tests. Standardized tests give scores that predict how “smart” a person is, although intelligence comes in many forms. To a large extent, standardized testing is not an effective way of measuring a child’s intellectual potential because it focuses mainly on the performance instead of the child’s growth and it doesn’t take into account the child’s personality and what they have to give. On the other hand, they can be necessary because they act as guides to help parents and teachers aid children on what they don’t have knowledge on in a specific subject.

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...aring in mind the information said, it is now safe to say that the standardized testing process is to a large extent unnecessary on estimating a child’s cerebral capability because their attention is too much on the child’s performance on that day as an alternative to their progress throughout the year and they don’t anticipate the child’s personality and other qualities besides their academic knowledge. On the other hand, standardized tests can be to a small extent necessary because it helps teachers lend a helping hand to students so they can ameliorate their knowledge. Considering all that’s been said, standardized testing after all is not the solution. We must teach kids how to think outside the box, not how to fill in test circles. It is now time to create a new testing method that is proven equitable and most importantly, beneficial to a child’s education.