Who really gets tested by state exams
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I entered my classroom on test day, armed with a positive attitude and a calm smile. Neither guaranteed test success or reflected my true feelings. Both made me feel better.
Preparation for the Virginia Standards of Learning tests had begun in September. Third grade was an especially demanding year, since it was the first time the children had been tested. Merely practicing for the test wasn’t enough. We practiced for the practice for the practice test. Online testing meant that a large part of the computer lab had been transformed from a time of creative discovery into endless drills. The counselor even directed a skit that was full of test tips: If you feel anxious, breathe deeply and slowly count to 10. Remember to go to bed early the night before the test. Eat a healthy breakfast on the morning of the test. Our efforts couldn’t guarantee higher test scores, but they made us feel better.
These tests were high stakes for the classroom teachers and for the schoolbut not for the 8-year-olds. The children would be promoted even if they failed the tests, and the scores would not appear on their progress reports. My goal was to be sure that my students did their best, in spite of the fact that there were no consequences — for them.
“Mrs. Baker, why do I have to do a good job on the test, if my grade doesn’t really count?”
“Well, it’s important to always do your best. Your parents and I will receive a copy of your test scores. In fact, even the principal will know how you did, and the results will always be part of your permanent record.”
“Oh, but my dad told me that the permanent record is a myth.”
So much for my goal of persuading this particular student to take the test seriously, although my explanation did make me feel a bit better.
The first child who entered my classroom on the morning of the test had red, puffy eyes, and her cheeks were streaked from leftover tears. She hated her newly (quite poorly) trimmed bangs. A bad hair day was certainly not a valid reason to exempt her from testing. However, I knew that her botched bangs would affect her score. I gave her a hug and then moved on to a particularly needy student. After getting his attention — a test in itself — I looked him in the eyes and said, “I know you are going to do well today. Just remember to answer every question and to always do your best.” He squared his shoulders and confidently replied, “Eric’s my name, and guessing’s my game!”
At that point, I took a deep breath and slowly counted to 10. My anxiety was unabated, and somehow I did not feel any better. I moved on to the Who really gets tested by state exams - The Washington Post: