This investigation describes (a) use of an item analysis technique applied to pretest results of Tests of Basic Experiences (Moss, 1971) with children 3-5 years old enrolled in a day care center; and (b) development of a new statistical technique for evaluating change ratings between pre- and posttests. A technique of obtaining mean change ratings for each item, determining significance of these ratings, and comparing item categories based on instructional objectives showed certain means for categories included in instruction significantly different from categories not included and certain mean change ratings significantly different from zero for categories of items included in instruction. (Author)