Overview
Why are some top universities eliminating standardized tests like the SAT and ACT from their admissions policies? Do these tests actually predict success in college? Explore the debate over test-optional admissions policies and whether or not this leads to more diversity in college classrooms or to more failure for students who are not equipped for the rigor of some schools.

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Lesson Insights

Grade level and subjects
• Recommended for grades 6-12
• Subjects: Other
• Works in Classroom, Hybrid, and Homeschool settings

What students will learn
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
• identify the main arguments for and against the use of standardized tests in college admissions;
• compare the impact of standardized testing on different demographic groups, as discussed in the video;
• analyze the potential consequences of removing standardized tests on college diversity and academic success; and
• evaluate the effectiveness of test-optional policies in achieving educational equity based on the evidence presented in the video.

Key concepts and terms covered
Aesthetics, Disparity, School Mismatch, and Standardized Testing.

Sample discussion questions
• What are some reasons colleges are moving away from requiring SAT and ACT scores?
• What are the benefits of keeping standardized tests in the admissions process? What are the drawbacks?
• What did the MIT student mean when he Tweeted “the SAT is fairer than the alternative needing my parents to connect me with a professor”? Do you agree or disagree with his statement? Why?
• How might test-optional policies harm those they intend to help?
• Is the shift toward test-optional admissions a trend that will continue or will it revert in the future? (Explore recent decisions by higher education facilities regarding standardized testing.)

What’s in the free teacher’s guide
This printable 16-page Teacher's Guide includes a lesson description, learning objectives, key vocabulary, a fill-in viewing guide with answer key, discussion and analysis questions, and classroom activities.

Standards alignment
Aligned to state standards — use the SITC Standards Tool to match this video to the standards in your state.