22 of 34

No

Write now Article Tools

More testing may lead to better standardized test performance, but not much else. Perhaps tests are necessary to gauge that a minimum amount of knowledge is seeping into the minds of our youth, but the overabundance of testing now is simply curbing a student's ability to enjoy learning.

If it's not going to be on the test, most often, students aren't supposed to know it. Why? Because then they won't remember the answers to questions that are on the test! Is this how we nurture our children to grow, thrive, and learn about the world around them?

And when teachers' bonuses depend on their students filling in the right bubbles, often class time becomes a lesson on how to take tests. Did you know that the most frequent correct choice on a four-choice multiple test is B? The second-most frequent correct answer is C, according to my 9th grade social studies teacher. Those test-taking skills will serve kids when for taking the SAT, and maybe even the MCAT, GRE, or LSAT, but for the 99% of your life that you aren't taking tests, those skills will be completely useless.

Perhaps testing leads to an apparent betterment of school performance, but what about life performance?

Learn more about this author, Samantha Enns.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Will more standardized tests to track students progress lead to better school performance??
We want to hear your view. Write now!