In the state of Georgia, the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test (CRCT) is used to measure student achievement in reading, English language arts and math in grades 1st through 8th. Also, the CRCT is used in science and social studies for students in grades 3rd through 8th. In the 8th grade the writing assessment, also called the Middle Grades Writing Assessment (MGWA). Students enrolled in the following subjects: algebra 1, geometry, U.S. history, economics, biology, physical science, 9th grade literature and American literature are given the End-of-Course Tests (EOCTs). Students in the 11th grade take the Georgia High School Writing test (GHSWT) in the fall and the Georgia High School Graduation test (GHSGT) in the spring in English Language Arts, math, science and social studies. High School Students must pass all the sections of the GHSGT and GHSWT in order to receive a diploma to graduate. These students are given four opportunities to retake the test before the end of the 12th grade. The CRCT, MGWA, EOCT, GHSWT and the GHSGT are standards-based tests, which measure how well students are mastering specific skills defined by the state of Georgia. These test scores are important for schools in Georgia because the state uses them to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
Personally, I agreed with using these tests to identify students strengths and weaknesses. These students do not need to feel pressured or stressed to pass these tests. The teachers should be allowed to give students more time to learn and understand the material presented to them. Some students need more time to learn the different ideas and concepts presented to them. In other words, it takes time and less pressure for our teachers and students to create a positive learning environment.
In Canada the CAT/3 test is designed to measure student progress in basic skills taught in schools across Canada. These specific skills include, reading, spelling, language, mathematics, and writing. The CAT/3 tests are norm-referenced which means it provide a general picture of a student's abilities by comparing his/her scores to the scores of the national group. The focus is on a certain target group which is selected and the student scores are reported. In the fall, all of the fourth and eighth graders complete the appropriate CAT/3 tests for their grade level. The results are useful both at the classroom and the division levels. At the classroom level, the results provide teachers with information for instructional planning. At the school division leave, the results, are used to monitor student achievement and to help focus resources toward particular skill areas.
Personally, the CAT/3 tests in Canada does not put pressure on the students and teachers to learn in a hurry. The CAT/3 focus on one particular group are students to represent the population. The results of the test are used by the teachers to help with instructional planning. Using the CAT/3 test would be very helpful to use for learning and improving student achievement and provide resources for particular areas.
References:
http://www.greatschools.org/students/local-facts-resources/testing-in-Ga.gs?content=434&print=true&frompa...
http://www.spsd.ca/division/ourresults/catversion3.html
Talea,
ReplyDeleteOne of the things we can’t ignore is the fact that tests do add some stress. Adults are not excluded so the fact that children are being tested will generate some level of anxiety. However, as children progress through the process if they are to cope effectively that level of discomfort which they would have entered the room with is likely to reduce. On the contrary, if children cannot cope well with the information them their stress level will only escalate. It is important that our teachers not only prepare our children cognitively for the tests but they should be prepared, physically, psychologically, socially and emotionally as well. The really is that tests are a normal part of our assessment procedure but we must ensure that children’s holistic development is not compromised in the process.
Talae,
ReplyDeleteIn my native island, children are given assessments continuously. However, the grade 6 children are given a national exam in May to secure a place in secondary school. It is stressful for a lot of children and this could be the reason why some children do not secure a place due to their low scores in the assessment. It is my hope that those exams will be dissolved in my island,Grenada, and all children will automatically be given a chance to attend high school of their parents' choice.
Talae,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you regarding that some of the testing in this country puts too much stress on the children because they have to pass the test in order to advance to the next grade. However, the test also puts alot of pressure on the teachers because there promotions and incentatives are given according to the performance of their children.
I also enjoyed reading your blog in reference to how Canada assesses their children and how it is a less stress process to gain the information needed.