The latest research from Primary Review said there was considerable evidence that tests de-motivate lower achieving pupils and put teachers under pressure to increase scores, "which they do by teaching to the tests, giving multiple practice tests and coaching pupils in how to answer questions". The review also found the assumption that tests are more reliable than teachers' assessments is not justified.
Steve Sinnott, general secretary of the National Union of Teachers, said: "With the publication of this report, there is now every reason to act to dismantle a testing system whose only effect seems to be to create stress for pupils and teachers."
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