A test is...

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March 12, 2022

    I've done it right. I've done it wrong. Some people say that taking a test is wrong. Some people say taking a test is right. It's so easy to get wrapped up in the policies and procedures of it all. At the end of the day, a test is a test. It's how you use the test that determines the right versus the wrong. 

    Why do we give our students a test? Do we test students because it's a grade in the grade book? Wrong! Do we test our students because it's a measure of progress and monitors our teaching strategies? Right! If we are giving a test just to give the student a grade, then we are wasting our time. It's not about catching the student in confusion and showing how high or low they are performing. 

    I've started looking at test as a measure for me, the teacher!!! Students have so much test anxiety today. They get stressed about test, even in first grade. Y'all this should not be happening! I've started talking to my students about tests. Before a test, we discuss how the only reason I need to take their work and them complete at activity without any help is for me to see exactly what they know and don't know. I also elaborate on how it helps me decide what needs to be taught the next week. This has really helped my students. When they know it is more for me than about who they are, it relieves some of the stress. 

    I encourage us to start looking at test as a measurement of progress and monitor of teaching. It truly is a reflection of what is happening within our classroom. In order to be the best version of ourselves as teachers, we need to have something show what is being accomplished within the classroom. 

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