Testing

It's benchmark week.  I know this is a touchy subject in public education, but as a teacher I wanted to express my thoughts about what I like and dislike about standardized testing.
My students took a science benchmark on Friday, ELA today, and they will take Math on Wednesday.

What I like about benchmarks/EOG's:
1. When the content of the test aligns with what I have been teaching.
2. Watching my students use the strategies I have taught them.
3.  Getting the results back and feeling successful.
4.  Setting goals with my students.
5.  Strengthening the confidence in my students.

What I dislike about benchmarks/EOGS:
1.  The stress it puts on teachers and students.
2.  Poorly written questions.
3.  The length of most of them.  (The NC Check-In's that we have switched to this year and the perfect length in my opinion.
4.  How much emphasis is placed on the test.  I always tell my students that the test does not define them or determine their success or failure in my class.   
5.  When students who know the material test poorly.

Just my thoughts, I realize that testing is just part of it and I will continue to do what is best for my students.