Standardized tests are used in order to determine if a student is meeting the average requirements. It can also rank a student alongside their classmates, other students within the state and even the country. These tests come at many different levels, starting in elementary school and continuing onwards throughout secondary and sometimes post-secondary education. Standardized tests measure a variety of subjects including English, math, history and science. These are core subjects which a student will rely on somewhat no matter what type of profession they end up having, making them core subjects which are necessary to build off of year after year.

Standardized Testing for Middle Schools

A very controversial topic in the education system is standardized testing. With certain policies and laws in effect, standardized testing will be around for a long while. There are many proponents and opponents to standardized testing and both sides do have reasonable arguments. Standardized testing is held throughout all levels of schooling, including those districts that have middle schools. Various Standardized Tests for Middle Schools There are a few federal and state enforced standardized tests for middle schools. Main NAEP Assessments The Main NAEP assessments are undertaken in middle school in...

Standardized Testing for Higher Education

In the United States, standardized test scores are a key part of the admissions process for undergraduate, graduate, and other degree programs. A variety of standardized tests may be used according to the program, student, and college or university being applied to. The test may be subject-specific or test the student’s abilities in a number of domains. For international students, English language proficiency is often tested. In higher education settings, standardized testing is used to help rank applicants from a wide range of academic backgrounds. Test scores are mandatory for the majority...

Standardized Testing for Pre-Schools

Standardized testing for preschool-aged children is a highly-debated issue in the United States education system. Many parents, teachers and institutions do not believe that the intelligence, competence, and achievements of a four-year-old can be measured in a standardized testing setting. Others simply refuse to let a singular test score define their early learners. One journalist called the practice of administering standardized tests to kids’ “madness.” But in spite of all those who are opposed to it, standardized testing is often used to determine whether a child is ready to...

Standardized Testing for Primary Schools

Students in primary and elementary schools in the United States take more standardized tests than students in other industrialized nations, writing at least one standardized test each year between Grade Three and Grade Eight. Students in the U.S. may also spend up to 50 hours writing standardized tests each year. In spite of this, American students tend to score lower on international tests compared to their global counterparts. In some cases, results from standardized tests may be used to hold students back from progressing to a higher grade. Results from tests may also directly affect how much a...

Standardized Testing for Secondary Schools

Standardized testing in public schools, including high schools, has been a highly-debated topic for years when it comes to school system reform. In 2002, with the No Child Left Behind Act, standardized testing was increased in the American public school system. The act made it obligatory for public schools to administer standardized tests at select grade levels in order to receive funding from the federal government. Many believe that the system is unfair, not only for students, but also for teachers, principals, and schools. However, standardized tests for high school students also have several...