Author says graded classrooms and graded textbooks based on them are the key stumbling blocks to progress in our whole educational system. (Author/JB)

The concurrent and postdictive validity of two newly-devised tests of contrasting hemispheric function (Test of Right Hemisphere Ability, Test of Left Hemisphere Ability) was investigated relative to scores earned on the reading and mathematics portions of the Comprehensive Tests of Basic Skills. (Author/PN)

Four considerations that enhance the instructional importance of tests are content match, use of feedback, a flagging function, and the increasing tendency to attach sanctions and rewards to standardized test results. These sanctions are apt to force greater attention to the other three characteristics, strengthening the links between instruction…

Needs for curriculum development in Scottish schools for both able linguists and less able students in the 16-19 age group are discussed. It is proposed that students of moderate ability who have dropped languages in favor of other subjects should be encouraged to return to language instruction for both general and specific educational and career…

The long-range predictive and differential validities of the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) are investigated. Data from students (n=1284) who entered Jefferson Medical College from 1965 through 1974 were analyzed and supported the convergent and divergent validities of the SAT over an extended period of time. (Author/PN)

With no substantial relationship between the Screening Test of Academic Readiness (STAR) and the Metropolitan Readiness Test scores and low correlation between the STAR and teachers' rankings, the findings indicate the STAR may not be an effective screening test for kindergarten pupils in a population of children with superior intelligence…

Many educators have been too quick to use traditional statistical data as measures of school effectiveness. Instead, educators should develop means of understanding and communicating to the public measures of social variables that operate in effective schools. (JW)

Results of a survey of Indiana National Merit Scholars are presented. Areas addressed in the survey include intended majors, academic achievement, standardized test scores, student characteristics, financial aid, and student feelings about the National Merit Scholarship program and what it has done for them. (MSE)

A seven-phase test development and validation process based on nuclear pharmacy practice standards is described, including: amplication of behaviors in the practice standards, development of examination specifications, item writing and review, a demonstration test, setting the cutting score, and final editing and assembly. (MSE)

The relationship of three medical college policies on the results of the National Board of Medical Examiners test was examined. Only the policy recommending a review course for the test had a significant effect on test results. (Author/PN)