What does it mean for a test to be "high stakes"?

• A. The test duration exceeds three hours
• B. It has significant consequences for students or educators
• C. The test is administered only once a year
• D. It requires advanced technology to administer

Answer: (B)

A "high stakes" test refers to an assessment that has significant consequences for students, educators, or the educational system as a whole. This can mean that the results of the test can affect a student's academic progression, determine graduation eligibility, influence school funding, or impact teacher evaluations. Such stakes inherently raise the importance of the test and can influence teaching practices and learning environments.

The other options do not define "high stakes" accurately. The duration of the test or the frequency with which it is administered does not inherently categorize it as high stakes. Similarly, while advanced technology may enhance testing processes, it does not define the stakes involved. Thus, the critical factor that characterizes a high stakes test is the potential impact it has on important educational outcomes.