Standardized Test and Informal Reading Assessments

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How well do standardized tests work as tools for obtaining information about children’s literacy strengths and needs? Standardized tests have both positive and negative uses as they pertain to obtaining information and what that information can be used for. The use of portfolios can also be used to guide instruction, and they can be used as informal or summative assessments. The use of both the standardized test as well as a student portfolio will give the teacher information that can be used to assess how well they are instructing as well as what areas they may still need more work in.

There are many pros and cons as to whether or not there should be standardized testing. Both sides of this debate have some valid points, and by listing a few of these you can make your own decision as to whether standardized testing is good or bad, and what or how you can use the testing information in your classroom.

“Standardized tests are defined by W. James Popham, former president of the American Educational Research Association, as ‘any test that’s administered, scored, and interpreted in a standard , predetermined manner.” (ProCon.org, 2011, p. 6) The debate over these tests has become a very hot topic especially since the implementation of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) act. The debate over these tests covers all academic areas and therefore is relevant to the area of children’s literacy. At the core of this debate is the main stance of both sides:

Proponents say standardized tests are a fair and objective measure of student

achievement, that they ensure teachers and schools are accountable to taxpayers,

and that the most relevant constituents – parents and students – approve of testing.

Opponents say the tests are neither f...

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