Homeschooling is a natural choice for many families because it provides an excellent schooling experience and allows children to learn at their own pace and in their own way. But choosing the right standardized test for your homeschooled child can be a daunting task because there are so many options.
The following 15 questions will help you determine the best test for your child.
1. What are the reasons for administering a standardized test?
The primary reason for administering a standardized test is to measure a student’s academic progress and skills and to compare those achievements to the national average. Standardized tests can also be used to help determine placement in college and other post-secondary education, and to help identify gifted children and those with potential for accelerated learning. Additionally, tests allow for meaningful comparisons between your child’s performance and that of other students.
2. What types of standardized tests are available?
Standardized tests can broadly be divided into two categories: high-stakes tests and low-stakes tests. High-stakes tests are generally used to measure a student’s academic progress and to compare their performance to the national average. These tests include the California Achievement Test (CAT), the Stanford Achievement Test (SAT), the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS), and the IOWA Assessments.
On the other hand, low-stakes tests are typically administered by parents to assess the effectiveness of their homeschool curriculum. These tests usually measure the student’s foundational skills, including reading, math, writing, and science.
Examples of low-stakes tests include the Woodcock-Johnson III (WJ-III) and the Otis-Lennon School Ability Test (OLSAT).
3. How often should I administer the test?
The frequency of administering a standardized test depends on the type of test chosen. High-stakes tests should be given on a yearly basis, while low-stakes tests can be given more frequently. Typically, it is recommended that the low-stakes tests are given twice a year in the fall and spring and should not be given more than once per month.
4. What is the purpose of the test?
The purpose of the test will vary depending on the type of test being administered. High-stakes tests are used to measure a student’s academic progress and to compare their performance to the national average.
Low-stakes tests are generally used by parents to assess the effectiveness of their homeschool curriculum and to measure a student’s foundational skills.
5. Who administers the test?
High-stakes tests are typically administered by certified educators or testing centers, while low-stakes tests can be administered by parents at home.
6. What age is the test appropriate for?
High-stakes tests are typically administered to students in grades 3-12, while low-stakes tests can be administered to children as young as 3 or 4 years old.
7. What subjects are tested?
The subjects tested vary depending on the type of test chosen. High-stakes tests typically measure a student’s performance in math, reading, language arts, science, and study skills.
Low-stakes tests usually measure a student’s foundational skills, such as reading, math, writing, and science.
8. How does the test measure progress?
High-stakes tests measure progress through attainment targets, which are used to compare a student’s performance to the national average. Low-stakes tests measure progress by measuring improvements in a student’s foundational skills over time.
9. Who gets the results of the test?
High-stakes tests are generally sent to the student’s school or state education department. Low-stakes tests are usually sent to the parents.
10. Are there any special requirements for administering the test?
High-stakes tests must be administered in a secure environment and usually require trained personnel and equipment. Low-stakes tests can be administered at home without any special equipment.
11. What is the cost of administering the test?
The cost of administering a standardized test will vary depending on the test chosen and the method of administration. High-stakes tests administered in a testing center can cost upwards of $200 per test, while low-stakes tests taken at home typically range between $60 and $100.
12. How long does it take to administer the test?
High-stakes tests typically take a full day to administer, while low-stakes tests can be administered in one or two hours.
13. Are the results of the test accurate?
The results of standardized tests are generally considered to be accurate and reliable. High-stakes tests usually have stringent quality control measures in place to ensure accuracy, while low-stakes tests are designed to provide an accurate measure of a student’s current skill level.
14. How do I prepare my child for the test?
It is important to adequately prepare your child for the test by helping them become familiar with relevant material and providing practice tests. Additionally, it is important to make sure your child is adequately rested and well-fed before the test.
15. How will I know if the test is the right one for my child?
The best way to determine if the test is the right one for your child is to consult with a certified educator or testing center. These professionals can help you select the appropriate test and ensure your child is adequately prepared.
Conclusion
Standardized tests are an important tool for tracking a student’s academic progress, and it is important to choose the right test for your child. The questions outlined above will help you identify the best test for your homeschooler and give you the confidence you need as you embark on this journey.