Why Are Test Scores So Low?
Nationally low test scores have more to do with
kids pushing back than kids not being able to perform.
The question below is a released item from an actual 4th grade state test. It is taken on a computer, and the child is likely 10 years old.
Remember that this question is for 4th grade. It is what we are using to determine grade level proficiency, and all parts of it must be answered to the satisfaction of the state evaluator in order to be considered correct.
Additionally:
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All work must be shown using a computer keyboard and the textbox with buttons.
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Clarifying questions to the test proctor are not allowed.
So just what are we testing?
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What if you're pretty good at math thinking but have a delay in reading comprehension?
You're 10 years old when you take this test.
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How long are you going to try solving this problem, let alone making sure you type everything correctly in the box to get maximum points? (How long did YOU persevere just reading it?)
Do kids really care about our test that supposedly measures their ability to examine a topic deeply? From what I have observed in classrooms over the last 10+ years, they do not.
Common Core tests mislead the public.
And Common Core itself kills curiosity.
It makes children feel inadequate and even...stupid.
Pushing oneself is a good thing.
Feeling like you're being pushed to serve someone else's agenda feels...
invasive and manipulative.
Common Core is just one aspect of our failed education protocols;
read CHAOS in our schools
for the rest if the story.
CHAOS in our schools is available immediately in Kindle format on
Amazon.com .
