Standardized testing is so much a part of American culture that almost everyone can recognize its multiple choice format, even young children. It is no wonder; for most Americans, the testing starts in kindergarten. This testing culture seems to be uniquely American. In fact, Europeans refer to these tests as "American tests." A standardized test is called such because everyone takes the same test with the same questions, so one's performance can be compared to everyone else's, in order for a relative score to be obtained. Schools across the country vary greatly, so an A at one school might not be equal to an A from another; standardized tests thus serve to offer an equitable measure of aptitude. Because they are designed to screen applicants and are nearly impossible to finish, many people freeze when taking them. Perhaps their fear would change to anger if they...