Choices Quiz: Should Schools Ditch Standardized Tests?

1. Standardized testing means _________.

• A. schools use only students’ grades to measure their success in school
• B. all students in a district take the exact same test at the same time
• C. all students in a district take different tests at the same time
• D. schools decide to put unnecessary stress on students and teachers

2. According to a study by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, high scores on standardized tests _________.

• A. are an accurate way to measure student performance
• B. might not indicate that the student knows how to apply knowledge to real world problems
• C. are stressful and unhelpful
• D. enable schools to identify areas where they might need to improve their curriculum

3. What does Carrie believe is the most reliable indication of her performance in classes?

• A. her grades
• B. standardized test results
• C. class-specific tests
• D. a mix of all of the above

4. Why does Dylan think class-specific tests are not as useful as standardized tests in measuring student performance?

• A. They usually contain information that was not learned in class.
• B. They are stressful and unhelpful.
• C. There is too much variation between classes.
• D. all of the above

5. Which of the following most closely represents Carrie’s opinion about standardized tests?

• A. Standardized tests accurately reflect what she has achieved during her time at school.
• B. Standardized tests might be boring and stressful, but they are an objective way to measure how students are performing.
• C. Standardized tests are stressful and unhelpful, so we should get rid of them.
• D. Standardized tests usually lead to students feeling positively about themselves and their learning.

6. Close reading: Which of the following most accurately represents Dylan’s opinion about standardized tests?

• A. If you are not sure about the answer on a standardized test, you should always pick “C.”
• B. Standardized tests might be boring and stressful, but they are an objective way to measure how students are performing.
• C. Standardized tests are fun.
• D. Standardized tests will definitely help you get into college.

7. Do you agree with your school’s approach to standardized tests? Why or why not?