Standardized Testing Argumentative Essay

Standardized testing is constantly expanding and gaining importance in the education system of the United States, despite the controversy that comes along with it (Linn, 2001, p.29). Opinions of these tests are constantly being changed and argued among different groups. Many people believe that the importance of standardized tests has been stretched to a point of absolute ridiculousness. Standardized tests are being portrayed as ¨exhibiting greater precision and [scholarly] rigor than high-school grades,¨ which causes them to be considered of great importance(Geiser, Santelices, 2007, p.3). These tests are taken too heavily into consideration when assuming the intellectual abilities and future academic achievements of students, and are harmful to their mental health. The United States is one of the only countries to administer standardized tests. Kohn (2000) explains that “[American] children are

Kohn (2000) posits that ¨the people who work most closely with kids are most likely to understand the limits of standardized tests” (para.61). Many students either do not take such tests seriously, or take them too seriously and become so anxious and nervous that they do not perform to the best of their abilities. Teachers know that children have more potential than what might be shown on a standardized test, however, those higher in position are more worried about school ratings and funding. This forces teachers to focus on drilling information into the heads of students until they have memorized the material rather than instilling an understanding of materials and a thirst for newfound knowledge into young minds. Kohn (2000) proposes that the increased pressure “drives good teachers...out of the profession” (para.90). The job of being a teacher may become more difficult and less enjoyable or rewarding when so much weight is placed upon their shoulders to turn out excellent grades on standardized