While tests focus on performance and content instructed throughout each unit, projects concentrate on connecting the material learned to real world experiences. 

The question is which one is more effective? Tests require students to memorize all information taught, but that does not mean they understand what’s being taught. Tests are also more highly valued for a student’s grades compared to projects.

Projects encourage students to take in what they’ve learned as projects and usually take a few days to complete. Students are able to use their own time to guide, giving them the freedom of doing something productive and fun while also allowing for students to cooperate with others. 

WJPS junior Nathan Gibson stated, “Tests can be really stressful, but with projects you can take your time and ask for help when you need it.” 

There is a high amount of pressure and anxiety students face leading up to a test because they go in knowing they will be given a number on how well they obtained the knowledge. This can be very difficult as some students are poor test takers which can affect their mindset going into these tests.

Mr. Andrejovics, a teacher at  WJPS stated, “During a test, questions cannot be answered but during a project, if you have ongoing questions they can be answered, it’s more fair and students are more receptive to that.”

To put it succinctly, less pressure is ensued over projects than tests. Although not covering all material learned as tests do, projects are generally done individually just like tests and allow students to be as creative as they want with the material they gathered through the class.