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.
