This whole concept illustrates the major short-coming of testing systems in general - how does one effectively test a person's knowledge? or in fact, do you test knowledge or the their capability to think and solve problems? This is a major hurdle right now. The system favors those who take tests well - mostly basic regurgitation of information coupled with good guessing skills. Add to that with differing levels of teaching ability in the educational staff. Throw in multiple examples of students graduating who can't read (mostly in inner city schools where many of the students are concerned with staying alive rather than bothering with school). Liberally flour the whole thing with people who want to shift responsibility to someone else. Lastly, mix it up with a bunch of whiney-types who want quick fixes so they can gain more power in the political fields and you get the mess we're in now.

What can we do to solve this? How about parental responsibility? I knew that life wasn't good for me if I didn't do well in school - first, I'd pay for it when I came home. Secondly, I knew that education was important to future earning power, so I was doubly-motivated. Where did this come from? My family. I realize that parental responsibility isn't a panacea, however, it would go a long way towards fixing the problem. I know that any children I have will be well-educated - because this is something I place a high level of value on. And because of that, I'll take a personal role in making sure it'll happen - I won't just leave it up to some teacher I don't know.

PS - I read that guide to essays - use long words instead of short clear ones? Hmmm - that'll make the world a better place...

That just about says it all. People were talking about "Why Johnny can't read" when I was in school. No it is none of your business when. lol Somethings just never change. I think the biggest changes are the lack of interest, by parents, in what is being taught in schools. The "Three Rs" are often nowhere to be found.