Friday, December 7, 2012

Pressure > Test Scores

Increased rigor, a reduced amount of time and 15 end of course exams to pass.  Sure, and why not add more pressure by making the test count towards their actual class grade.  I am sure that adding additional requirements will “scare” students into taking things more seriously.

Hardly. I am not surprised that Governor Perry supported the schools rights to choose whether or not to implement this requirement. His track record shows that he does not have a firm understanding of what strategies will work best to encourage kids to perform better on standardized tests. Thankfully, he did agree with the decision to defer the rule for now.

I agree with Josh that it is possible the rule could go a couple of directions, but it is most likely that it will go one way. More students will crack under pressure. Test scores will go down and grades will as well. Yes, it is true that there are a few good test takers out there, but what about the majority of students who are not? What message is this sending to our students? You can work hard and make progress, but when it comes down to it, the only thing that truly counts is how well you can perform on a test?

Additionally, what message will this be sending to our teachers? No, sorry, please put away any creative and innovative ideas you may have. You need to get out as much test prep material as possible because those kids of yours have to pass that test. Oh and be sure to make sure they know the stakes! Wave that 15% threat over their heads so that they are sure to focus and take it seriously!
Come on. Let’s just abandon this idea now and avoid the unnecessary grief.

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