In an article in the Winter 2011 issue of the "Journal of Educational Measurement", van der Linden, Jeon, and Ferrara suggested that "test takers should trust their initial instincts and retain their initial responses when they have the opportunity to review test items." They presented a complex IRT model that appeared to show that students would…

Although using the five-paragraph formula to teach essay writing is a ubiquitous practice--and many K-12 teachers defend it--Campbell argues that having students write according to this formula does more harm than good. The formula's tight structure stops the very critical thinking students need to do to strengthen their cognition and their…

Does the country's national security rely on top-quality early childhood education? Yes, say the military leaders of Mission: Readiness, an organization led by retired military commanders that promotes investment in education, child health, and parenting support. Actually, the generals are right, but for all the wrong reasons. The generals' aim is…

The author, an English professor, shares his experience in retaking the Graduate Record Examination in English literature, 25 years after he entered graduate school at the University of Virginia. He took the practice test instead of the "real" test, for a number of reasons. He wanted to be able to look over the questions afterward; to…

An argument is presented on whether helping students intelligently critique standardized tests is a necessary form of test preparation. The detailed analysis of typical questions reveals what students are truly asked to do on the tests.

Preservice and inservice teacher education programs should incorporate the teaching of test wiseness in their curricula. (CMJ)

Questions the effects of tests on children, teachers, school districts, and parents. Advocates a redefinition of current testing practices. (CM)

This review of research on Cattell's Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire discusses results related to mean occupational profiles, Holland types, and performance prediction. Suggestions for interpretation and computer use are made. (SK)

Offers tips for preparing for and doing well on the SAT. (FL)

The nature of tests involved in the controversy on coaching is examined. Then coaching is considered against the background of diverse types of training that may affect test performance, and the implications of these various forms of training for the meaning and validity of test scores is discussed. (Author/BW)

Discusses materials for middle grade and high school learners. Explains useful resources for teaching struggling writers. Details a publishing tool, a reading comprehension assessment, and a Scholastic Assessment Tests (SAT) preparation text. (PM)

Reading instruction can be transformed into cynical test-beating exercises. Victory arises from frequent practice in taking similar tests. Students who spend most of their time on test-type activities generally do better on reading tests than those who "waste" time reading for information or pleasure. Teachers whose students score highest on…

If students can see a clear reason for comprehensive examinations and have a model to follow in preparation, they will learn more and their test anxiety will be reduced. A history of doctoral examinations is presented, and how students might be helped to prepare for them is discussed. (RM)

Teaching students test wiseness can have a number of positive results, including improving the validity of the tests themselves and improving the scores of minority students on tests. (AEA)

Presents an interview with Jerry L. Johns. Discusses topics related to reading assessment, standardized tests and test-wiseness, the format and content of reading assessment measures, informal reading inventories, and portfolio assessment. (RS)