Are standardized tests a fair means of assessment?
A majority of colleges and universities accept either SAT or ACT test scores. The ACT is primarily an achievement test aligned with classroom type work, whereas the SAT is a reasoning test that focuses on critical thinking and problem solving. Since the SAT and ACT show different strengths, mastery of each test can enhance a student’s value on the admissions table. Admissions officers use college entrance exams as predictors of college performance, and as a means to compare students from diverse educational backgrounds. College success skills — reading comprehension, vocabulary mastery, writing, grammar usage, and analytical reasoning — are interwoven to build standardized tests. These skills are invaluable both in and out of the classroom. Tests such as the SAT and ACT allow colleges to assess each student on a level playing field. Grade Point Averages do not give a complete picture due to the inconsistencies of grading systems and the steady increase of grade inflation in many school
