Why do standardized test scores matter in the classroom?

People would like for you to think standardized test scores do not matter.

Are they right, or are they wrong? I'll let you decide.

Test scores allow us to determine educational gaps. Sometimes these disparities can be directly associated with race. Any opportunity to bring attention to discriminatory educational policy should be an opportunity that we should discuss frequently. Exposing system failures keep us honest, in my opinion. A failure to provide and monitor education safeguards can be a downright failure to protect those at risk.


I'm not making this argument because I believe it is accurate or because I am trying to convince anyone of anything. I will make this argument because of the opportunity to debate and educate others about what we know is necessary to end discriminatory educational practices.

The American Association of Colleges of Education (AACE) recently released its 2018 Annual Survey of Postsecondary Teacher Educators. The survey included questions about the role of standardized testing in teacher preparation programs. The survey results show that teachers are more likely to be against standardized testing than for it.

Moreover, those against standardized testing need to learn how to use it. We should not use test scores to blame teachers for failure. It is a harmful and inaccurate way of understanding what the tests are measuring. The first thing I would say is that the test scores are a good indicator of how well our schools teach math and reading, but not how well they prepare students for college or careers. The second thing I would say is that these scores don't mean anything about whether students will be successful in life. 

People against standardized testing want you to believe it's harmful to students. It is complete BS. Standardized testing is not the only way to test your child, but it's a great way to determine how much of a struggle your child may have with the material in school. Why should I bother with standardized tests? Standardized tests can help you and your child understands how well they are doing in school. If your child is having difficulty understanding the material, you can use this information to help your child do better in school.

Your child may need some extra time and practice to get the hang of the material. He or she may have a learning disability that affects comprehension. Or your child may have ADHD or another disorder that causes poor attention. Talk to your doctor if you suspect that your child's learning is affected by any of these things. A teacher may also be able to help your child learn. The teacher might know your child's strengths and weaknesses. She or he might recommend strategies that work for your child.

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