©ARC Page 207 K-8 Standardized Test Scores: Does Gender Impact Test Scores?

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to conduct a literature review to determine the gender has on standardized test scores. Then the researchers compiled data on standardized test scores in Georgia to determine if the scores supported the literature review findings. The literature review indicated that female students tended to score higher in English and reading on standardized tests, while males tended to score higher on math and science. The investigators gathered and analyzed data from the 2013 and 2014 Georgia Criterion-Referenced Competency Test (CRCT) for grades 3, 5, and 8. The data gathered consisted of test scores in 5 different subjects (Reading, English/Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies). The results for both years indicated, there were a lower percentage of females that did not meet the state standard in all grades for all subject areas, indicating more females meet the state benchmarks. However, the 2014 data included overall average test scores which showed males had a higher score in science and social studies for grades 5 and 8