As part of a study of the basic skills of secondary level education students, a study of prospective teachers' reading ability was conducted at Pennsylvania State University. Subjects were 47 students in secondary education. Two separate assessments of reading were used, the Nelson-Denny Reading Test and a criterion referenced test of reading…

This article describes procedures used at Pennsylvania State University to assess basic skills of applicants to the secondary school teacher education program. Tests given prior to student teaching assignments measure reading, writing, and speaking competencies. Test development and validation activities are explained. (PP)

Included in the Pennsylvania State University teacher education program for secondary school teachers is a requirement that students demonstrate ability to read, write, and speak effectively in professional situations. The basic assessment procedure in these skills is conducted before the student teaching experience. The assessment includes three…

Reading/writing skills of prospective elementary and secondary school teachers from 7 colleges located in 4 geographical areas of the United States were examined to discover what test-performance differences, if any, occurred among the 375 subjects. Test instruments included: the Nelson-Denny Reading Test (Form D); a Criterion-Referenced Test of…