About the Tests
Teachers use many different methods to determine how well students
are developing important skills. For example, teachers frequently
observe how students participate in class discussions and group projects.
Teachers also review students' homework, quizzes, and tests to make
sure that they are learning important concepts.
New York State has Learning Standards that describe what every
child should know and be able to do in each grade. Each year, students
in Grades 3 to 8 take standardized tests in English language arts
and mathematics. Standardized tests are one important way to understand
how well students are meeting these standards. You can find more information
about New York State Learning Standards in "Additional Resources."
Information from these standardized tests can help teachers understand
the strengths and needs of individual students and classes. Results
from the tests play a role in determining whether students will be
promoted to the next grade.
