The question is hotly debated every year: what are the pros and cons ofstandardized testsforhomeschoolers?
As a long term homeschooler, let me set the record straight.
We do so to fulfill state requirements.
In my state its the easiest option to satisfy the homeschooling laws.
My state is happy.
Even the kids are happy.
(They test withfriends and spend the breaks playing together outside.)
you could honestly say youre testing the kids every year and theyre doing just fine.
And you could stop questioning your decision to homeschool.
Its like a yearly snapshot.
My kids love comparing scores from year to year and seeing their improvement.
Highlight Serious Issues
Occasionally a childs score will come back in the abysmal range.
Were talking bottom of the heap,how could my child score this low, throw in range.
An abysmal score doesnt mean youre a bad teacher.
he test simply revealed an undiagnosed learning issue.
Its time to search for answers.
Taking standardized tests at a young age gives kids excellent practice with test taking.
They learn how to fill in the bubble sheet and see what the format of the test is like.
Do you really need a test to tell you theyre struggling with spelling or dont know their multiplication facts?
In my years of testing I found it confirmed what I already knew.
Time Consuming
Standardized testing is time consuming.
It takes up valuable time which could be spent on learning.
Standardized tests are not your best use of time.
Hard on Small Children
Standardized testing is hard on younger children.
Instead of running around playing and exploring, theyre sitting still and filling out bubbles.
In addition theyre too young to learn the test-taking strategies older children master.
BUT the test gives a grade equivalency score.
You may find your child tested at the 9th grade level.
This does not mean your child is ready for the 9th grade!
Just because your child has mastered 5th grade material does not mean your kid is ready for high school.
The high score means youre doing a fabulous job.
Pat yourself on the back and stay on course.
Weigh the pros and cons and let me know,do you give your children astandardized test?
