Which subjects are mandated for annual testing under the No Child Left Behind Act?

The correct answer identifies that under the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), states are required to conduct annual testing in math and reading for students in grades 3 through 8 and once in high school. This focus on math and reading is rooted in the legislation's objective to ensure that all students meet certain academic proficiency levels.

The emphasis on these subjects reflects the act's goal to improve educational outcomes and accountability within the school system. While science assessments are indeed encouraged and mandated at certain grade levels, they do not form part of the annual testing requirements as directly stipulated by NCLB for the broader student population. Additionally, subjects such as social studies and arts are important in educational curricula but were not included in the mandated annual testing framework under this legislation, which primarily concentrated on literacy and numeracy.

Thus, the focus on math and reading aligns closely with the intent of the NCLB to bolster essential academic skills deemed crucial for student success.