Every state, except Iowa now administers test based on the states standards. Some states require students to pass these standardized tests in order to receive a HS Diploma; if they do not pass these exams they will only receive a certificate of attendance. Standardize testing in each state share these common factors: high standards for what all students should know and do; tests aligned to the standards to measure student progress; and accountability for schools based on the results.
Therefore, many teachers have resulted to teaching to the test. As a result, students are not in an engaging learning environment but are being forced to memorize facts and practice test taking skills. Although, teaching to the test will help the students become more familiar with the content on the test, other valuable information is being excluded from the curriculum.
What do you all think? Should testing play a huge role in determining whether students graduate or not?
Therefore, many teachers have resulted to teaching to the test. As a result, students are not in an engaging learning environment but are being forced to memorize facts and practice test taking skills. Although, teaching to the test will help the students become more familiar with the content on the test, other valuable information is being excluded from the curriculum.
What do you all think? Should testing play a huge role in determining whether students graduate or not?