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Testing
Tests and quizzes were common in nineteenth century schools. Often, teachers would measure student knowledge by conducting an oral stand-up quiz at the end of the school day. The first standard test of major significance was introduced in the 1870s. In order to attend high school, students from rural schools were required to pass the Eighth Grade Examination. This two-day exam was administered at the county seat.
 Today’s students take many tests from kindergarten through the last year of high school. Short, informal quizzes and tests remain a popular way of measuring student understanding, but they are done on paper and in a quiet room. The Iowa Test of Basic Skills, California Achievement Tests, PSAT, and SAT, as well as numerous state-specific tests, measure aptitude, critical thinking skills, and content-area knowledge. Recent political pressure for schools to be accountable has resulted in increases to both the number of tests available and the amount of time students take tests each year. These tests also attempt to conform educational content to consistent standards from community to community and from state to state.
Then & Now:
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