Studies give standardized tests low grades

Group, May/Jun 2003 by Roller, Julia

TEMPE, Ariz.-A new Arizona State University study shows that statewide standardized tests with high penalties for those who don't pass (for example, mandatory summer school or not graduating) don't seem to improve academic achievement. In fact, students at schools with high-stakes tests are receiving lower scores on other performance tests such as the ACTs, SATs, and Advanced Placement results than in the past.

"Teachers are focusing so intently on the high-stakes tests that they're neglecting other things that are ultimately more important," says Audrey Amrein, the study's lead author.

Although more than half the nation relies on standardized state exams, additional studies have shown that teachers in high-stakes-testing schools are frustrated by the system because they can't spend time on subjects not covered by the exams. They also feel that the exams are demoralizing to students.

On the other hand, not every state that implemented high-stakes testing saw a drop in other scores. Indiana students, for example, now receive higher average scores on ACT, SAT, and AP tests than they did before statewide testing was implemented. Indiana officials say that's because, unlike some other states, Indiana doesn't release the exact questions of the previous year's tests to teachers.

"We're trying to get people to teach the standards and not teach the test," says Wes Bruce, director of assessment for the Indiana Department of Education.

Sources: The New York Times, The Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, The Washington Post, The Boston Globe

Is it fair for schools to rely on standardized tests to determine which students graduate? Is it different than colleges using standardized tests such as ACTs, SATs, and AP exams for admissions? Why or why not?

Do you agree with some teachers' assessment that high-stakes testing is demoralizing to students? Why or why not? In schools where standardized testing is mandatory, how can teachers "teach the standards" and not just the test questions? What factors should determine whether you graduate from high school or not? Should grades be the only factor? test scores? Should attendance and extracurricular activities be taken into consideration?

How is testing used in Christian life-for example, did Jesus test his followers' understanding and learning? If so, what methods did he use? Does God test our faith and our understanding of his will? Explain.

Scripture links: Psalm 17:3; 26:2; Matthew 13:51-52; 16:13-20; Mark 8:17-21; and John 6:5-6.

Julia Roller is a contributing editor for group. She's assistant editor at HarperSanFrancisco in California.