OK, here goes for the system I used to work for:

1. What are standardized tests? Test forms given to all the public school kids in the grade in the state.



2. Why do schools use standardized tests? To keep federal funds (they'll tell you they do it to see how kids are doing in relation to each other)



3. How do schools use the tests? To make the teacher go back and reteach, re-emphasize points, or even to hold kids back. Sometimes used to decide who will get additional remedial teaching or tutoring from 1st grade up.



4. Will standardized tests be used to determine my child’s placement in the classroom? Yes



5. What kinds of tests will my child be taking? Umm, I know little ones did PALS, can't remember what gr. 3-5 did.



6. How will the scores be reported? Schools get the info first, then, eventually, parents get a letter.



7. How will my child’s test score be used? See above--tutoring, remediation, or a computer-based program they started this year. Holding back for little ones (like K-1).


8. How can I help my child do well on tests? Food, sleep, etc.



9. Does the test score reflect how my child does in the classroom? On occasion.



10. What happens if my child doesn’t do well on the tests? See above--tutoring, remediation, or a computer-based program they started this year. Holding back for little ones (like K-1).