Five alternatives to standardized testing of student achievement are described in this brief overview. The first, criterion-referenced tests, are designed to evaluate the accomplishment of specifically stated instructional objectives. Student performance is judged on the basis of the objectives, rather than in comparison to other students taking the test. The second approach is teacher-made tests, which are usually criterion-referenced mastery tests measuring small units of instruction. They can be tailored according to specific curricula and students. Teacher training in test construction and use is recommended. Contract grading is the third alternative suggested. In this system, the teacher and the student agree on the course objectives for the student, the support to be provided by the teacher, and the evaluation method. The fourth topic is interviews. Information about student progress may come from interviews with students or their parents. The fifth method involves other documentation such as samples of the students' work, student journals and notebooks, and teachers' records. (GDC)