The Houston (Texas) Independent School District's plan requires that teachers demonstrate competence in four areas: (1) functional academic skills; (2) content area knowledge; (3) methodology; and (4) new technology. Proficiency-based techniques used in teacher selection and in diagnosing needs of inservice teachers are described. (PP)

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)