Where lies the blame?

Before this unit on test writing I would automatically assume it was the fault of the student. Perhaps the little darling didn't study or slept during the review. However, after learning how to actually "write" a test and not rely on the ones supplied to me I would certainly have a different opinion. Maybe. If I had written the test and the child failed and the parent called here are my thoughts: 1. I would reflect on the child's daily performance and share his studious behavior or lack of studious behavior with the parent. 2. I would explain that we reviewed the material in class the day before the test (something I always do, usually in a game type format) 3. I would also show the parent the study guide the student had available for use in preparing for the test. 4. Lastly, I would explain that the test material represents the content taught and that modifications are made as necessary (IEP, etc.) If it was a hands on skill, it was a hands on test. If knowledge based, written test. In addition to that I would also show the parent the material I used to create the test so they understand I am not pulling random questions out of a hat.