Reviews international academic achievement differences and argues that poor U.S. performance in math reflects curricular focus and teaching deficiencies, not inadequate sampling techniques. Reveals that U.S. student achievement has been weak for decades, suggesting fundamental school reform is warranted. (GR)

Argues against Gerald Bracey's following assertions (1996): (1) U.S. students do far better on international academic comparisons than reported; and (2) the government and popular press have led the country into a false achievement crisis. Suggests that U.S. participation in international studies of this type relies on a strong and independent…

Responds to David Baker's critical essay (1996) concerning G. W. Bracey's arguments that a false academic achievement crisis had been government engineered and that U.S. students were, in fact, comparing well to their international counterparts. Discusses shared issues between L. C. Stedman (1993, 1996) and Baker, and explores data and contentions…

Addresses the issue of comparing U.S. with student academic achievement in other countries and argues that there is cause to be concerned. Reveals a consistently poor academic achievement record for U.S. students that spans 50 years. Such evidence suggests that U.S. schooling and learning are seriously deficient, warranting fundamental reform. (GR)