Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS)

Definition

The Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) was a standardized test used in Texas public schools to assess students' academic performance in core subjects such as reading, writing, mathematics, and science. TAKS was designed to ensure that students met state educational standards and was part of a broader accountability system aimed at improving educational outcomes across the state.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. TAKS was implemented in 2003 and was used until it was replaced by the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) in 2012.
2. The test was administered to students in grades 3 through 11 and included subjects like reading, writing, math, science, and social studies.
3. TAKS played a crucial role in determining school ratings and funding, as schools that did not meet specific performance standards faced consequences.
4. The assessment included multiple-choice questions as well as open-ended responses, particularly in writing.
5. Students had to pass specific TAKS tests in order to graduate high school, creating significant pressure on both students and educators.

Review Questions

• How did the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) influence educational practices within Texas public schools?
  • TAKS significantly influenced educational practices by holding schools accountable for student performance on standardized tests. Schools had to adjust their curricula and teaching strategies to ensure that students were adequately prepared for the exam. This focus on testing created an environment where teaching to the test became common, affecting how subjects were taught and prioritized within the classroom.
• Evaluate the impact of TAKS on student achievement and school funding in Texas.
  • The impact of TAKS on student achievement was significant, as it provided measurable benchmarks for assessing student performance. Schools that consistently met or exceeded TAKS standards were rewarded with increased funding and resources, while those that fell short faced sanctions. This system aimed to elevate educational standards across Texas but also led to criticisms regarding teaching methods that emphasized test preparation over comprehensive learning.
• Analyze how the transition from TAKS to STAAR reflects changes in educational policy priorities in Texas.
  • The transition from TAKS to STAAR reflects a shift in educational policy priorities towards a more comprehensive evaluation of student learning. STAAR was designed to include more rigorous assessments aligned with college and career readiness standards. This change indicates a move away from solely focusing on standardized test scores towards a broader framework that encompasses critical thinking and real-world application of knowledge, aiming for a more holistic approach to education in Texas.

Related terms

Standardized Testing: A testing method that is administered and scored in a consistent manner, often used to assess student performance and compare it across different populations.

No Child Left Behind Act:

A U.S. federal law enacted in 2001 aimed at improving educational outcomes by increasing accountability for schools, requiring standardized testing, and ensuring all students reach proficiency in reading and math.

State Accountability System: A framework implemented by states to measure and evaluate the performance of public schools based on standardized test scores, graduation rates, and other indicators.