The focus of standardized testing is on preparing students for the future, not just on the score.

Key points:

The importance and rigor of AP exams have once again come into focus with the release of the latest test scores. Discussions surrounding the new scoring method and the consolidation of content continue to emphasize the value of a single test score, overlooking the primary reason students should take AP and other standardized tests: to prepare them for the future in an environment that promotes growth and aligns with college and career experiences and expectations.

A 2021 analysis by the College Board revealed that merely completing AP classes and taking the exams increased the likelihood of students enrolling in college and excelling in introductory courses. This holds true for students who score a 5 on the test as well as those who score a 1 or 2. While there are financial incentives for students who perform well, such as earning college credits and potentially bypassing introductory university courses, the benefits of AP exams extend beyond monetary rewards. They equip students with valuable skills in critical thinking, time management, writing, communication, and problem-solving, all fostered by a learning environment that encourages productive struggle.

Optional advanced coursework, which allows students to learn through productive struggle, often faces cuts when districts are dealing with budget constraints, school closures, teacher turnover, and larger class sizes. As a former principal, I observed students dropping AP classes when they didn’t excel as they did in other courses, a mindset reinforced by parents and teachers who were hesitant to push students outside their comfort zones. This can set students up for underperformance and increased challenges when preparing for careers that require standardized testing.

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While it’s important not to let students fail in their AP classes, there is a threshold that must be respected. Providing resources and encouragement to help students exceed their limits and recognizing that the learning journey is more valuable than the final score is essential. Parents and teachers should push students beyond their comfort zones and guide them in overcoming challenges in their coursework. School districts should offer teachers and students supplemental resources to support their instruction and expectations. Quality instructional materials can help even new AP teachers effectively teach complex subjects, engage with students, and help them master the material.

After-school programs and nonprofits also play a critical role in providing essential resources that may be lacking in schools. Many organizations collaborate with local groups to offer academic support for students preparing for standardized tests. These efforts, along with the encouragement to persevere through AP courses, are crucial to the success of today’s students.

Research indicates a direct correlation between standardized tests and college success. Students who learn how to prepare effectively for rigorous exams tend to derive the most benefits from the study process. SAT, ACT, and AP exams are not IQ tests with fixed results; students can improve their scores by prioritizing learning over memorization. They should embrace the challenges of exam preparation with a focus on improvement rather than perfection.

Despite past movements advocating for universities to adopt a test-blind admissions process, SAT, ACT, and AP exams remain integral to college admissions. Our classrooms serve as the foundation for the future workforce, so emphasizing rigor through advanced placement courses and challenging exams helps students develop resilience and a willingness to face struggles in order to grow, ultimately benefiting society.

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Laura Ascione is the Editorial Director at eSchool Media. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland’s prestigious Philip Merrill College of Journalism.

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