Definition and Purpose: A high-stakes test is any test used to make important decisions about students, educators, schools, or districts, most commonly for the purpose of accountability—i.e., the attempt by federal, state, or local government agencies and school administrators to ensure that students are enrolled in effective schools and being taught by effective teachers. In general, “high stakes” means that test scores are used to determine punishments, accolades, advancement, or compensation. (High Stakes Test, 2014)
Advantages: Holds teachers accountable, motivates students to work and study hard, establishes high expectations for both educators and students, reveals areas of educational need, provides easily understood information about schools and students, gives parents, employers, and colleges confidence that students are learning at a high level or that graduates are prepared to succeed during adulthood.( High Stakes Test, 2014)
Disadvantages: Forces educators to teach to the test, produces a narrow academic program in schools, may contribute to higher levels of cheating, may not serve all socioeconomic groups equally, may diminish overall level of teaching and learning for disadvantaged students. (High Stakes Test, 2014)
High Stakes tests are test of learning. They generally come at the end of the year or course and measure the learning that occurred during that time period.
A high stakes test for kindergarten, if they exist, may look like a reading or math test, or perhaps a placement interview for a private school.