There are state and federal mandates directing what standardized tests are taken by students and when, and at which levels those tests will be taken. The administration of a classroom test is a decision determined by the classroom teacher. Both tests are taken under the direction of school personnel and opportunities for making up in case of an absence are available for both tests.
Although the classroom teacher ensures the classroom test is a reliable and valid measure of student knowledge, this is not established via statistical testing. However, the reliability (consistency) and validity (accuracy) of a standardized test is established by a testing agency, well in advance of mandated administration.
The administration of a standardized test is entirely scripted, from the delivery of instructions to the end of the test. A set amount of time is allotted for testing and there are even required restroom breaks for students. The atmosphere of a classroom test is more relaxed. The teacher gives directions without a script and makes decisions regarding students leaving the classroom during the test. Although these differences exists, the atmosphere in both cases is serious and students are closely monitored.
Standardized tests are sometimes referred to as "high-stakes testing," because the results are used for educational decision making. For instance, the results of a high school exit test, a common standardized test, could have a serious effect on a student's chance to graduate. Both tests play a part in the academic advancement of a student. However, the grade of a chapter test in biology affects a student's academic progress to a lesser extent.