FCAT- FLORIDA'S HIGH STAKE TESTING
FLORIDA COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT TEST by Kimberly Swanson
What exactly is the FCAT?
The FCAT is Florida's high stake test. It was originally designed to measure achievement. This test consist of Reading, Math, Science, and Writing for grades 4, 8, and 10. This test takes 3-4 days to complete, and must be re-taken if a student is absent, or has not passed it. A student must pass the FCAT to receive a high school diploma. Failing the FCAT has resulted in mandated grade retentions, or remediation classes. According to Valerie Strauss, In 2011, only 39% of 10th graders passed the Reading portion of the FCAT. (2012)(Startling fact for such a high-stake test.
What are the legal and ethical implications for teachers?
Preparing students for FCAT
Should teachers teach the test?
References
Image retrieved from : www.keepcalm-o-matic.co.uk
Strauss Valerie. 18 May 2012. How standardized tests are affecting public schools. The Washington Post. Retrieved from http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/answer-sheet/post/how-standardized-tests-are-affecting-public-schools/2012/05/17/gIQABH1NXU_blog.html