Research Paper Sources 4

http://www.2facts.com/icof_story.aspx?PIN=i1400550

Supporters of standardized testing claim that it is an important standard to make sure students have basic math and reading skills. They can help identify weaknesses in individuals and the school. But some states require these tests in order to graduate, which may put into question the future of some students. They call them "high stakes tests" because they have such a large impact on students' lives. Critics argue that these tests don't raise kids' grades or achievement levels. They highlight the disadvantage that minorities and low income students have in preparing for the test.  Standardized tests do not accurately measure the skills students need to succeed after high school, and research has shown that the exams do not reflect academic achievement.