Students take tests almost every day of the school year, teachers use these to test our knowledge and understanding of a subject.
However, many tests are given to students not by their teachers, but by the state.
As students finish their SATs, ISATs, and NWEA (MAP) testing this week, many are wondering what makes these assessments so important.
Both the ISAT and the SAT tests are among the most important tests you may ever take while you are in high school.
The ISAT is a mandatory test issued by the state and schools for grades three through eight and for juniors.
This test is used to measure students’ proficiency in the core subjects, specifically, math and English.
In addition, the ISAT is required for graduation, but it can also be helpful before graduation.
Many teachers at Lakeland High School may offer the ability to waive a final if you achieve a high enough score (usually about a four).
The SAT test is taken by Juniors and Seniors as part of the college application process.
Although SATs can be very important, there are some reasons why someone does not have to take them.
If someone has no plans for going to college, taking the SAT seems to be more of a waste of time than anything else, since the SAT test is not required for graduation.
Additionally, some colleges no longer depend on SAT scores as an entry.
Taking the SAT test, however, could potentially help ensure a higher possibility of getting into a college.
For example, if someone has a low GPA but scores high on the SAT tests it will help enhance their ability to get into college.
Although it is very clear that the ISATs/SATs are very useful for any future education, it does not explain the need for NWEA.
NWEA does not have the same effect as SATs, but it is important so that the state can measure the academic growth of students.
“I think the reason why we take them is for the state,” Junior Danika Barker said.
This test does not study the growth of a small group of students, but over 10 million students throughout multiple states.
By taking a test for math, science and English in the fall and retaking it again in the spring, it helps teachers and the state to understand where each student stands.
Many teachers use this test as an opportunity to decide what the students have taken in over the past year.
Also, the teachers are able to determine whether or not their teaching methods are effective.
This allows teachers to focus on subjects that most of their students may be struggling with.
The test highlights students’ strengths and weaknesses in all areas of every subject.
