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Friday, January 11, 2013

Pass / Fail : Feedback: Here's what you think about the state's changes to standardized tests | 89.3 KPCC

Pass / Fail : Feedback: Here's what you think about the state's changes to standardized tests | 89.3 KPCC:


Feedback: Here's what you think about the state's changes to standardized tests

An empty classroomCredit: BES Photos/Flickr (cc by-nc-nd)
State school officials say standardized tests as we know them — the multiple choice kind that require Scantron forms and No. 2 pencils — are not working for teachers or students.
What we need,  California Schools Superintendent Tom Torlakson said last week, is to  move away from memorization-driven tests.  He's proposing an assessment exam that draws on analytical skills, problem solving, and writing, which are in line with the Common Core curriculum set to debut in 2015.
We asked you for your thoughts on Torlakson's recommendations, which include a moratorium on all state testing next school year, making kids subject only to federally mandated exams. He said that would give