Beyond these academic basics, students should be free to take courses that further their individual goals and aspirations. With grade-level standards in place, Virginia could begin measuring how effectively the core subject matter was being taught and learned in classrooms throughout the state. Statewide tests are criterion-referenced tests aligned directly to academic SOLs. There are three compelling reasons for external, statewide testing. And third, schools need reliable data to assess their instructional strengths and weaknesses in order to improve teaching and learning.
External tests have other intrinsic value as well.
However, when external tests are used as signals of achievement, negative peer pressure decreases. Students take learning more seriously and begin to see the teacher as an individual who can help them succeed, rather than a grinch who spoils their fun. In 1997, Virginia adopted new Standards of Accreditation which phase in significant changes over several years. Changes for Students Instruction in Four Core Disciplines Required . All students are required to receive instruction in each of the four core academic areas every year K-8.