For all of the talk of performance on math and science tests, it is reading that really counts. Unfortunately, the specifics of the program appear to depend on the conclusions of the National Reading Panel whose work is suspect. In spite of the text's ambiguities, many problems emerge from the document, only a few of which can be treated in this space. The plan requires states to annually test reading and mathematics in grades 3 through 8. This uneven treatment of curriculum topics would guarantee the neglect of science and history.
People naturally concentrate on doing well that which they are evaluated on.
Both carrots and sticks apply to test scores in reading and mathematics, but not science and history. Schools will, therefore, emphasize reading and math. What You Test Is What You Get. Moreover, important educational decisions should not be made on the basis of standardized tests. Such tests do not measure creativity, judgment, persistence, higher-order thinking, stamina, motivation, imagination, determination, sense of craft or civic mindedness.