A teacher explains the procedures she uses to prepare her fifth and sixth graders for taking multiple-choice standardized tests. (SJL)

In Medicine Hat, Alberta, standardized test results are not made public and are used as a tool for identifying strengths and dealing with weaknesses. Teachers review test results, then propose changes and try new approaches. However, Edmonton Public Schools, Alberta, released test results for each of the 190 schools in the district, claiming the…

Standardized tests cover acquired knowledge in reading, mathematics, and English. To avoid misuse of standardized tests school districts should use tests to diagnose individual learning needs and improve programs; and administer tests once a year in the fall semester so results help guide learning plans for students Contains a glossary of basic…

This book focuses on curricular issues involved in preparing students for taking the SAT I--Reasoning Test using a problem-solving focus. There is a particular philosophy with which this book is presented. First, the illustrations have been selected to demonstrate in dramatic form the power of the procedure presented. Second, the problems both in…

An overview of the 18 mathematics examinations offered by the College Board is provided. In addition to summaries of the purpose and content of each of the tests, the general purposes of the examination system, faculty involvement in test preparation, and the use of hand-held calculators during testing are discussed. Tables review the tests, the…

In December of 1987, the American Association for Higher Education Assessment Forum convened a group of 25 assessment experts to examine the role of standardized tests in assessment. Some of the issues addressed are as follows: what makes standardized testing a particular concern in assessment; what the issues are; how campus assessment leaders…

To examine the reasons for declining Scholastic Aptitude Test scores during the past two decades, this paper proposes an empirical achievement model incorporating students' demographic characteristics and an expanding test-taking population. While test scores and participation rates are positively correlated, participation changes over time mask…

Explains achievement test scores, focusing on types, uses, meanings, and relative importance. Describes currently used scales, normal distribution curves, percentile ranks, grade equivalents, and other rating systems. Advises inclusion of more than one kind of standardized test score, since each provides different information. Includes three…

Reviews a dozen basic questions about passing scores on state-mandated competency testing programs for students, teachers, administrators, and other education personnel. Condemns the "cardiac" approach (or traditonal 80 percent standard) in favor of procedures that systematically incorporate judgment with a variety of performance data.…

Curriculum policies, testing programs, and language arts textbooks have hampered the teaching of writing, but circumstances are changing. An 11-item reference list is included. (Author/DCS)

Describes study to determine effect on Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores of coaching with a microcomputer software program, Computer SAT. Results indicate mathematics scores are improved by computer coaching with no difference between effectiveness of individual or small group computer use, and verbal scores are improved by small group use.…

This guide shows how to integrate assessment with teaching and learning to reach educational goals. The aim is to present assessment concepts in a concise manner that can be understood and applied by teachers, administrators, and other school personnel. The chapters, organized around major assessment topics, are: (1) "Integrating Assessment with…

Discusses the new Advanced Placement course in statistics as an alternative to calculus for high school seniors. Broad conceptual themes of the course are exploring data, planning a study, anticipating patterns in advance, and statistical inference. Provides a list of College Board regional offices to contact for more information. (MKR)

Evaluation of 252 children with specific language impairments found varying degrees of congruence between clinically identified children and those identified using discrepancy, deficit, and standardized operational criteria. Results suggest that the global concept of a "specific language impairment" may not be a useful concept for either…

This article examines the standardized high-stakes testing in the wake of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) movement. It focuses on the political economy of the testing industry; that is, a look into the ownership, intent, and regulation of the private forces that produce, provide materials, prep sessions, and tutorials for and evaluate, report on,…