March

Standardized Testing

What is Standardized Testing? These are a series of tests that are taken by students throughout the country. They provide a measurement of the performance of the average student at a given age and grade level. This allows us to compare each individual’s student’s score to the national average.

Why were these test developed? These test were created out of the need to have a way of determining how well students were doing – accountability! Grading systems vary so much that it was impossible to use them as a standard; therefore a means by which different students in all parts of the county could be compared was needed.

What are the test results used for? There are valuable uses that have been developed as a result of the information that is provided.

§ Information for students, parents and teachers to assist in educational and career planning.

§ Information to assist the schools, county, and state to improve education.

§ Information for the State Department of Education on the achievement of West Virginia school students.

What is tested? At different grade levels there are some different tests. Almost all students will take the following tests:

§ Reading Vocabulary: Knowledge of words generally encountered in everyday life and in the subject areas taught in school.

§ Reading Comprehension: Students have a reading selection followed by questions. The test covers understanding, interpretation, critical analysis, and different reading strategies.

§ Mathematics: This test is a measurement of the students’ ability to answer basic math calculation problems and the ability to use reason in solving math problems.

§ Language: Language mechanics (capitalization, punctuation, and usage). Language (sentence structure) and Language Expression (understanding) are covered.

§ Study Skills: Gathering, organizing and using information In order to be an independent learner are measured.

§ Science: The sciences of biology, physical, and earth sciences.

§ Social Science: The history of the United States, Western Civilization, and other cultures are included. In addition geography, civics, and economics are tested.

What is the best way to prepare my child for these tests? Every student is provided a brochure, to be me taken home, which provides parents information on how to help prepare for the test. Please go over this with your child. In addition to the ideas contained in this flyer we would also suggest the following. Parents should talk about testing in a positive fashion. The attitude of the parents helps the students to have a positive attitude. If the tests are considered important, and this is conveyed to the students, this will increase their efforts to do well

When will the test be given? All students in grades K – 11 will be taking the test on April 9, 10, and 11. The week following testing is set aside for “make-ups”. Every effort will be made to insure that every child is given the opportunity to complete the necessary test.