Conditions Revealed by the Use of Standardized Tests in Rural Schools

Abstract

Two hundred eighty-five twelve-year-old children were asked to list all things that thrill, delight, and make them happy. The material was arranged in separate tests for boys and girls and provided for five degrees of feelings: like much, like, don't mind, don't like, hate. The tests were given to 285 other children of the same age and background. The results were tabulated and arranged according to frequency for "like much," The items were then classified under social interests, hobbies and interests, games and amusements, home and family, dreams and ambitions, school, foods, desire to possess, health and appearance. This paper reports the children's reactions to home and family, dreams and ambitions, school, foods, desire to possess, health and appearance, and to significant sex differences. The findings indicate attitudes toward home and school.