The Negative Impact of High Stakes Standardized Testing

Standardized testing is not a new concept; it has been in use since the mid to late 1990’s. However the â€Å"high stakes† focus on standardized testing is. The practices that accompany standardized testing have long been in debate. Those in favor of standardized testing will argue that the testing creates a system that increases grades and accountability among teachers, students and school districts across the country. On the other hand those that oppose standardized testing will argue the ill effects that standardized testing can have on students, teachers, and schools. There are numerous ways in which standardized testing has gravely impacted education, some of which are high stress levels of students and teachers, the hindrance on†¦show more content†¦This money comes out of the schools funding and in turn causes cutbacks on extracurricular activities, fine arts and science programs and even takes funding away from academic support for students in ESOL and ESE classes. The stifling increase in testing leads to a higher financial deficit for schools all across the United States. Lastly, but possibly the most disturbing effect of standardized testing is the fact that these tests create an even larger educational gap. Students of minorities as well as low-income families are being, although unintentional, discriminated against. Students that are in schools that are located in low-income areas, most of which tend to be minorities, are less likely to have access to the same resources that students from affluent families have. Also the high cost and loss of valuable curriculum time it takes to prepare for standardized testing, creates a much larger deficit, both in the curriculum and school funds. Although it may unintentional the bias being shown in favor of students in more affluent areas is undeniable. It is troublesome to think that due in part to â€Å"High-Stakes† standardized testing the students that need more help are in fact receiving less. In closing, â€Å"High- Stakes† Standardized testing has greater negative effects on education, tha n any positive benefits could outweigh. Standardized tests cause teachers to implement what is known as â€Å"Drill and Kill† method, which is a methodShow MoreRelatedStandardized Testing Has A Negative Impact On The Students1519 Words   |  7 PagesIn order to graduate in 2018 and beyond, a high school student is required to take seven standardized tests, achieving a cumulative score of 18, earning a minimum of four points in math, four points in English and six points across science and social studies (Ohio Department of Education). Students, in many schools, can spend weeks, and sometimes even months preparing to take these assessments. Teachers take time out of their lesson plans to help their students by teaching to the test. 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