Argues that content area teachers should assume the major responsibility for preparing students in the areas commonly assessed in minimum competency tests. Sets forth four problems in convincing content area teachers to assume this role and offers techniques for persuading them to do so. (FL)

A collection of 33 reading items are presented for state and local education agencies to draw upon in designing their own minimal competency tests. These items, developed by the National Assessment of Educational Progress, have been reviewed in terms of their appropriateness for testing competencies required for high school graduation. The items…