Teens' reading and math scores have stagnated, US test results show
Summary
Younger students, around age 9, have recovered to pre-pandemic levels in reading and improved in math, according to recent U.S. test results. However, 13-year-olds show no such recovery, with their reading and math scores remaining low and unchanged compared to decades ago.Key Facts
- The U.S. government released test data in 2024 showing academic progress differences between 9-year-olds and 13-year-olds.
- Nine-year-olds have bounced back to pre-pandemic reading scores and made some math gains.
- Thirteen-year-olds’ reading and math scores remain below pre-pandemic levels and are at about the same reading level as in 1971.
- About 31,000 students took the test during the 2024-2025 school year.
- The test has been given regularly since the 1970s and measures long-term trends in student skills.
- Fewer 13-year-olds read for fun daily now (14%) compared to 27% in 2012 and 37% in 1992.
- The decline in reading for pleasure is linked to more social media use on cellphones.
- Education experts say more focus is needed on helping middle school students improve their skills before they enter high school.
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