Define Diagnostic Testing in Math

The terms "testing" and "diagnostic" strike fear into students' hearts. Concerned about performance and afraid of consequences, students may put more emphasis on the outcome of testing than necessary. Teachers use diagnostic testing to assess whether a student has missed an important building block or to help a student who might benefit from being in a more advanced class.

Definition

The online dictionary Dictionary.com defines the word "diagnostic" as an adjective meaning "serving to identify or characterize; being a precise indication." Diagnostic testing in math is done to assess students' abilities and skill levels.

Time Frame

Diagnostic tests for ability in pre-algebraic math concepts are usually administered to students 10 years and older, up through eighth grade. These tests help assess whether the student is ready to move on to study algebra.

Content

Each math diagnostic test covers a specific concept. The subject matters include whole numbers, fractions, word problems, metrics, percentages and graphs.

Benefits

Math diagnostic testing can detect a student's learning deficiencies that the teacher may not have identified. Administering identical, standard diagnostic math tests creates a consistent and fair environment in which to evaluate student progress.

Identification

Some schools use diagnostic math tests to determine in which math classes to place students. It is detrimental to a student to be placed in a class for which she is not ready. It is equally detrimental to not let a student progress when ready.

References

• Dictionary
• Learning Resource Center
• APR Testing Services

Resources

• Stanford Diagnostic Math Test, Fourth Edition

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Photo Credit

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