Adept Quote by Nicholas Lemann
“I am not against standardized tests. There are tests and tests and tests, and, to simplify, the ones I favor are criterion-referenced tests of skills, aligned with the curriculum. Social and emotional skills are important but skills are too. I find it heartbreaking that this is so often seen as an either-or choice. To get to the richness of studying literature, for example, you must first be an adept and confident reader. Whether you are is something a good test can measure.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Future of Education, Nicholas Lemann, 2022
The author supports skill‑based, curriculum‑aligned testing while acknowledging the value of social‑emotional learning, arguing both can coexist.
In simple terms: Skill tests and emotional learning can both be important.
Key Takeaway
Balance testing with holistic education.
Themes
education
assessment
holistic learning
skill development
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
explanatory
reflective
When to use this quote
- classroom instruction
- policy design
- teacher training
- student self‑assessment
Key Concepts
criterion‑referenced testing
curriculum alignment
social‑emotional learning
Questions to Reflect On
- How can schools integrate skill tests and emotional growth?
- What risks arise from prioritizing one over the other?
A Different Perspective
Testing cannot capture all nuanced abilities; over‑reliance may narrow curricula.
