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Standardized test facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

A standardized test is a type of test that is given and scored in the exact same way for everyone. This means that all parts of the test, from how it's given to how it's graded, are kept "standard."

These tests are often used to help people get into a school or to get a special license. The way they are graded is always the same, no matter where you take them. For example, tests like the SAT and ACT in the United States or the Gaokao in China are used for getting into universities. Some jobs also require standardized tests, like the LSAT for people who want to become lawyers.

In the United States, when people talk about standardized tests, they often mean the multiple-choice tests used in schools. Some people think these tests are not the best way to see how much students are learning. However, they are easy to use and cost less money. Also, grading them doesn't need someone who is an expert in the subject.

Many psychological tests are also designed to be standardized. They are made to be a fair and consistent way to measure a person's behavior or abilities.

The First Standardized Tests

The very first known standardized test happened in Imperial China. Empress Wu created a system where anyone who passed a test could become a government official. This was based on their merit (what they earned or deserved) instead of their birthright (being born into a powerful family). This meant people had to work to become leaders, rather than just being born into it. We don't know all the details of how this old system worked.

Images for kids

  • Matura2005 ILOSzczecin

    Young adults in Poland take their Matura exams. This test is standardized so universities can easily compare results from students all over the country.

  • Flickr - The U.S. Army - medical training

    Two men take a hands-on, non-written standardized test. If they perform CPR on the mannequin correctly, they will pass.

  • A Recruit Joins the British Army H17185

    British soldiers took standardized tests during World War II. This new recruit is sorting parts to test his understanding of machines.

  • DL25

    This is a scoring form for driving tests in the UK. Everyone who wants a driver's license takes the same test and is scored the same way.

  • Cito Eindtoets Basisonderwijs

    Some standardized tests use multiple-choice questions because they are cheaper to score. But any type of test can be standardized.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Test estandarizado para niños

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