Argumentative Essay: The Use Of Standardized Testing In Schools

The pressure of succeeding in school is always bearing in a student's mind. Schools today utilize standardized testing to determine whether a student is promoted. For instance, ACT and SAT are examples of how educators view a student’s ability. With that being said, the majority of a student's diligent work is dedicated to one evaluation on a test. In some classes, a majority of classroom instruction is centered around testing. A standardized test score should not hinder a student from furthering their education. Use of standardized testing is not an effective measure of a student’s ability. Standardized tests are not a good representation of a student’s overall ability. Some students are intellectually gifted while other students may be artistically inclined. There are still other students who may do poorly math and science but excel in computer graphics or auto mechanics. Those who oppose my argument feel that tests show what a student knows. This is not all false, but students who show their
Placing a time limit on finishing the test is an example. Timing may cause a student not to be as comfortable as they should; thoughts do not flow as well. Some students are not good test takers, which causes anxiety. This is a distressing environment for the students and the teacher. For students who fall into this category, their confidence may be affected in a negatively. As a student, I have struggled to reach high scores taking the ACT in just one setting or reacting under a time limit. Thoughts of possible failure and not being eligible for certain scholarships or even being accepted into schools is very stressful. Despite my opinion, opposing views suggest that testing does provide skills for the real world preparation since some occupations require workers to respond effectively under time pressure. Students can still gain this skill without being timed on a test that does not show their true