Episode

6/11 Anya Kamenetz: The Test: Why Our Schools are Obsessed with Standardized Testing–But You Don’t Have to Be

June 11, 2015

NPR reporter and author of the new book the  The Test: Why Our Schools are Obsessed with Standardized Testing–But You Don’t Have to Be, Anya Kamenetz, explains the history of America’s obsession with test taking. The conflicting political drives behind the testing movement. The connection between theories of intelligence and eugenics. Why higher test scores don’t mean better schools. The Atlanta cheating scandal and the pressures that leading to cheating. What could lead to higher quality testing? Also the power of the testing industry.

On The Fun Half: NPR host Diane Rehm asks Bernie Sanders if he is also a citizen of Israel. Rick Perry is still a very stupid man. The racism behind the fear of voter fraud. Glenn Beck is convinced America is being overrun by psychological Nazis. A racist teacher in Texas wants to return to segregation but claims through a hashtag that she is not racist. Senator Mark Kirk says on a hot mic that Lindsey Graham is a “bro without a hoe” Also your calls and IMs.

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