What’s your opinion on SOLs?

SOL Stands for Standards of Learning, which are assessments administered in many states to measure students proficiency in various subjects. These tests are designed to ensure that students are meeting the educational standards by their state’s Department of Education. In high school, SOLS typically covers core subjects like English, math, science, and social studies. Even though these specific subjects are tested they may vary depending on your state and school district. These exams are usually taken at the end of the school year and are used to evaluate a student’s understanding of the material taught throughout the year.

So, what’s the purpose of SOLs? One of the main goals is to hold schools accountable for providing quality education. By assessing student performance on a standardized scale, SOLs help identify areas where schools might need more improvement. For high school students, SOLs can have both positive and negative impacts. On the positive side, SOLs can serve as a useful tool for self assessment. They give students an opportunity to showcase their knowledge and skills in a standardized format. Performing well on SOLS can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost confidence.

However, SOLS also comes with their fair share of challenges. The pressure to perform can be intense, as the tests often carry weight in determining a student’s  academic standing or even graduation eligibility. Some students may feel overwhelmed by the amount of content they need to review and the high stakes associated with these exams. To prepare for SOLS, many high schools offer review sessions, practice tests, study materials, and many students attempt to study over-night or a few days before they take the SOLS. Teachers may incorporate SOL-focused lessons throughout the year, helping students become familiar with the format and content of the exams.

Sharing your SOL scores with your parents is definitely a significant moment, It’s natural to feel a mix of anticipation and anxiety, as these score can reflect your understanding and mastery of certain subjects. “Yes of course I’m always honest about my stress and my scores regardless of how bad or good they are,” said Jamari Hooker. Remember that the scores are just one way to measure your academic progress and that your effort and dedication to learning are what truly count. When you talk to your parents, it’s helpful to explain what the SOL tests cover and what the scores mean. You could also discuss your thoughts on the exam, areas where you felt strong, and subjects where you might want to improve.

Feeling stress before and during SOLs is a common experience for many students. The anticipation of taking standardized tests can bring about a range of emotions. from anxiety to determination. “I feel like there is a lot of stress and nervousness when it comes to the SOL but I feel that if I try my best and focus in class I can do good on the SOL and so can others,” said Derrick Wilborn. Before the tests, this stress can manifest as nervousness about the unknown, such as wondering if you’ve studied enough or if the questions will be difficult. During the tests, the pressure to perform can intensify these feelings, making it even more challenging to concentrate and recall information.