To what extent do standardized tests function as tools for obtaining information about children's literacy strengths and needs? Standardized tests have both positive and negative uses as they pertain to obtaining information and the purpose for which that information can be used. The use of portfolios can also be used to guide instruction and they can be used as informal or summative assessments. Using both the standardized test and the student portfolio will provide the teacher with information that can be used to evaluate how well they are teaching and in which areas they may still need more work. There are many pros and cons regarding whether or not tests should be standardized. Both sides of this debate have some valid points, and by listing a few you can make your own decision about whether standardized tests are good or bad and what or how you can use the information from the tests in your classroom. “Standardized tests are defined by W. James Popham, former president of the American Educational Research Association, as “any test administered, scored, and interpreted in a standard, predetermined manner.” (ProCon.org, 2011, p. 6) The debate over these tests has become a very hot topic especially after the implementation of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) law. The debate on these tests covers all academic areas and therefore is relevant to the area of ​​children's literacy This debate is the main position on both sides: Supporters say that standardized tests are a fair and objective measure of student achievement, that they ensure that teachers and schools are accountable to taxpayers, and that voters more relevant – parents and students – approve of tests. Opponents say tests are neither f...... half of the document ......er 22, 2011, fromEducation Information for New and Future Teachers: http: //www.adprima.com/student_portfolios.htm Mercogliano, C. (Autumn 2004, Issue 22). No child left behind. Learning Paths, 7.Pasciak, M.B. (2011, June 28). The board decides not to oust Williams. Retrieved July 26, 2011, from Buffalo News: http://www.buffalonews.com/city/schools/article469822.eceProCon.org. (2011). Standardized tests. Retrieved October 22, 2011, from Procon.org: http://standardizedtests.procon.org Wang, L., Beckett, G. H., & Brown, L. (2006, Vol. 19 Number 4). Controversies over standardized assessment in school accountability reform: A critical synthesis of multidisciplinary research evidence. Applied Measurement in Education, 305-328. Wiggins, G. (March 2010, vol. 67, number 6). Why we should stop criticizing state testing. Educational leadership , 48-52.