Monday, December 5, 2011

Standardized Testing

I will be arguing why standardized tests (SAT/ACT) should not be required for college. Not only do kids not like them, but there are a lot of unfair advantages amongst people which influence their scores. These advantages of course favor mostly white people, those with money and can afford to spend thousands of dollars on test prep, and even men over women. Standardized testing is just a corporation, and it's unbelievable that this corporation dictates how people can or cannot pursue their futures. If people really want to take the test, they should still have that option, but all colleges should be fair test, and people should be able to demonstrate their successes is different ways because every person is different.
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5 comments:

  1. Jessi SolomonDecember 5, 2011 at 10:34 AM

    This is definitely a great topic to argue. I think you need to consider the counter arguements to make yours stronger. The main one is: If there wasn't standardized testing, how would you compare the knowledge of kids across america? When so many schools have vastly different circulums and standards for passing, it is nearly impossible to say who is more intelligent. So, I'd suggest a new way to compare students that is maybe more individualized or specific to what they want to study. Hope that helps (:

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  2. JTroutwinDecember 5, 2011 at 10:36 AM

    Thank you for the suggestion!

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  3. ShelbyDecember 5, 2011 at 10:50 AM

    This is so true. I completely agree. Someone could be a genius and get an 18 on their ACTs because they have testing anxiety or because they need more time. The time limit on these tests are completely ludicrous. They suck! So freaking what if I can't finish the darn test in 45 minutes. It's completely crazy and an awful test of knowledge. Be passionate when you give this speech and don't be afraid to completely tear them apart.

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  4. majorDecember 5, 2011 at 7:02 PM

    and what about the kids that are just bad test takers. they might do very well in the classroom and know the stuff but they just can't take standardized test.

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  5. David LavenderDecember 5, 2011 at 7:12 PM

    Jayleen,

    Judging from the tenor of the comments above, you've definitely struck a chord with this topic. Just make sure that you offer alternative methods of assessment that colleges might use to assess applicants. This strikes me as a very timely topic, and I look forward to hearing your presentation!

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