Standardized Test Basics

by Howard Berrent

 

Got a question about standardized tests? Howard Berrent's got the facts. He's a testing expert and president of Steck-Vaughn/Berrent Publications -- a company that specializes in test-preparation materials. Here are his answers to parents' top six questions about tests.

 

1) What exactly are standardized tests?
Standardized tests are created to assess a student's skills in relation to other students who take the same test under the same conditions. Some tests compare a student's performance to a group of students, a "norm" group. Other tests measure skills in relation to a group of standards.

 

Standards are guidelines, or descriptions, of what students should be able to do at different grade levels. The standards may be created by state education departments or national educational organizations.

 

Standardized tests usually assess reading, writing, and math skills, though social studies and science tests have emerged, as well.

 

2) Why does my child have to take standardized tests?
Education departments at local, state, and national levels want to know if they're doing their jobs correctly. Standardized tests are a great aid in doing this. They help schools determine whether their students are learning what they are supposed to be learning.

 

By comparing standardized-test scores, educators can locate problem areas and address them. Scores from standardized tests also impact students on an individual level. They play a role in determining future instructional plans for each student.

 

3) What do these tests measure?
Standardized tests measure a variety of skills, mainly in reading, writing, and mathematics. Specific skills vary from test to test, according to the standards that have been developed for each.

 

It is important to learn exactly what standards are being assessed in your child's particular test. This will make preparation for the test much easier.

 

4) What are the standardized tests my child will take?
 It varies from state to state. Your child will probably have to take a test in reading, writing, and/or math, and possibly other subject areas. Check with your child's teacher to learn about the types of tests that are given and what they measure.

 

5) What kinds of questions are on the tests?
In general, standardized tests have multiple-choice and open-ended questions. The open-ended questions will range from a one-word response to a well-organized essay.

 

Standardized tests are changing. There has been an increase in the level of sophistication of both the multiple-choice and open-ended questions on these tests. There is now a great deal of focus on using higher-level questions, which involve much more interpretation and critical thinking from your child, rather than the simple, straightforward questions of the past.

 

6) How can I help my child?
Your participation in the education of your child is very valuable and beneficial. Research has shown a direct relationship between parental involvement and a child's level of achievement.

 

Standardized tests can be very stressful and worrisome for students. Your child needs to know that you're there to offer guidance, support, and encouragement.

 

 

Answers written by Howard I. Berrent, Ph.D. with Caren Churchbuilder of Steck-Vaughn/Berrent Publications.