If we teach for mastery, then why would we bother to complete tests?
This is a valid question. Especially for those of us that require our students have a firm grasp on the material before progressing through the course. This is why it takes some of us longer to complete coursework than others. But if we’re teaching our children to master the material that they are studying, why would we give them tests?
While there are many other ways to show mastery, completing a test is a great option. If you read our blog post on studying, then you found that the work required to prepare for a test builds good study skills.
Check out the complementary post on studying here: https://scioacademy.com/2019/07/01/why-study/
In truth, I give very few tests. I find that the best tests are the open ended essay ones, which require many hours to complete and grade. Often, I find the benefits from tests can be achieved some other way.
However, there are areas in life which benefit from test taking skills.
- tests require preparation
Building good study skills and planning to complete a test in the given amount of time to show a level of mastery is a skill worth pursuing.
- tests build problem solving skills
Do you want to build your problem solving skills? take a multiple choice test about something that you know nothing about. This is actually the category that most SAT prep classes focus on.
- tests model life skills
Formal tests may not be part of the everyday life of most people, but have you been to the DMV or Dr’s office lately? Completing a form is a very real part of life and tests are a great tool for learning how to complete forms.
Regardless of whether you give regular tests or not, there are times when your students will need to complete a traditional test. The SAT, ACT, CLT, and formal training tests are not to be completed lightly. What better way to prepare for formal testing than practicing with simple consistent tests?