The strengths and weaknesses of five typical machine-scored test formats are discussed, specific recommendations for format selection are made, and reasons for the importance of format are examined. (MSE)

Indicates that the language in which a multiple-choice question is couched may be a significant factor in student performance. Effects of changing key words, terms of quantity, negative to positive forms, and from passive to active voice are discussed. Also discusses the effect of rewording long or complex questions. (JN)

Describes the process of developing performance-based tests for elementary history and social sciences in California. Explores development of open-ended questions, examples of questions and student answers, and scoring. Discusses prompts such as categorizing, chronology, cause and effect, controversy, multiple perspectives, interpreting symbols,…

This survey on modifications allowed for students with disabilities by 30 states in statewide criterion-referenced testing programs found no universal agreement about modifications. Accommodations in Test Setting and Test Scheduling were more frequently allowed than revisions in Test Directions or Test Format. Assistance devices and accommodations…

This manual presents an instrument designed for visual arts education research and as a screening and identification test for use in gifted/talented education for artistically talented students. The test consists of four items or tasks that call for a demonstration of different abilities and skills. Each completed drawing is assessed and assigned…

These language testing guidelines--grouped according to the five categories of the oral language interview: grammar, comprehension, pronunciation, vocabulary, and language utilization (communicative competence)--are presented for the language proficiency examiner. Brief guidelines for assessment are given for each of five levels of proficiency,…

This guide has been developed by experienced educators and curriculum specialists to provide Louisiana educators with information regarding assessment strategies used on the Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP) Grade 11 test (successful completion of which is required for graduation), as well as suggested instructional approaches for…

The evaluation tools written by teachers are rarely valid or reliable. One teaching aid that can help in the creation of an effective evaluation instrument is called a test map. A test map is a systematic method to consider variables that are important in the construction of the format of a test. Five variables that are discussed in the test…

Information is presented about the grade 9 mathematics examination to be administered in 1988. Contents include: (1) Introduction; (2) General Information (including Purpose of the Achievement Testing Program, Nature of the Achievement Testing Program, Exemptions from the Achievement Testing Program, Students Receiving Instruction in French,…

Consisting of items from the 1998 Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment as well as some items created specifically for the Practice Test, this Practice Test intends to be representative of the type of test and contain items similar to those that appear on actual grade 5 reading tests. These practice tests are not intended to be psychometrically…

Consisting of items from the 1998 Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment as well as some items created specifically for the Practice Test, this Practice Test intends to be representative of the type of test and contain items similar to those that appear on actual grade 3 reading tests. These practice tests are not intended to be psychometrically…

Explains the new format of the University Entrance and Bursary Examinations for New Zealand. Points out that open-ended questions based on field work carry the same weight as those questions referred to as internal assessment. Concludes that these types of questions allow the teacher to cover a greater range of topics. (GG)

Looks at the effect of student-written test questions on student test performance. Students either wrote essay or multiple-choice questions, or did not write questions. Student items were not used on the test. Results indicate that question-writing is an effective studying technique. (Author/LS)

Describes a two-day lesson plan for teaching U.S. history at the fifth-grade level. Focuses on the cause and effect relationship between historical events of 1763-76 and how they led to the American Revolution. Includes a flow chart to be used as a test question and a basis for class discussion. (DK)

Contends the impact of a final examination on grades surpasses its role in shaping the learning experience. Suggests issuing final examination questions in the syllabus to provide a structure for the learning process and for organizing data. Includes guidelines for essay examination questions and describes an introductory comparative course in…