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Arguments Against Standardized Testing

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The employment of standardized testing in New York City's educational system has been the subject of a contentious debate for almost 20 years. It all began in 2002 with the passing of the No Child Left Behind Act, which required students from 3rd to 8th grade to take annual standardized tests in mathematics and reading. Subsequently, in 2009, the state embraced the Common Core State Standards, which established explicit learning targets for mathematics and English Language Arts, which were subsequently evaluated through standardized tests.

The topic of standardized testing has been greeted with passionate opinions from educators and parents alike. Those in opposition claim that the tests are excessively high-stakes and have an overly narrow …show more content…

People argue that standardized testing detracts from genuine learning and that the emphasis on test scores results in an overly narrow focus on math and reading, neglecting other crucial areas of education, such as social studies, science, and the arts. While it is true that some educators may prioritize teaching according to the test, this is not a flaw inherent in standardized testing but rather a failure of teaching practices. The use of standardized testing does not inherently prevent teachers from providing a well-rounded education that incorporates multiple subjects and fosters critical thinking and creativity, but rather, it is up to teachers to create a balance between test preparation and other broader learning objectives. Moreover, standardized testing provides an objective measure of student achievement and can identify areas where students need additional support. The data provided by these tests can inform instructional decisions and help teachers target their instruction to address areas where students struggle. This targeted instruction can lead to improvements in academic performance and better prepare students for success in the …show more content…

People argue that standardized tests do not take into account the plethora of challenges that these students face, including language barriers, cultural differences, and limited access to resources. Although it is true that standardized tests may not be a flawless measure of student achievement and some students may encounter obstacles, these tests are designed to provide a fair and impartial measure of student performance. It can be thought of as a mirror, when being held up to a student “it faithfully reflects his or her knowledge and skills back to the test administrator.” Standardized tests are carefully crafted using rigorous research and are intended to be impartial to all students, irrespective of their background. Furthermore, standardized testing generates valuable data that can aid in identifying disparities in academic performance and shaping policies aimed at addressing these

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