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.
