Developed as part of the Arkansas Minimum Performance Testing Program (MPT), these item specifications relate to the third grade reading minimum performance test. There is one item specification for each instructional objective included in the MPT. Item specifications are intended to provide an overview of the general content and format of test items used to measure an instructional objective. Each item specification contains the following information: objective identification number; grade level; subject area; goal identification; skill description; stimulus attributes (information about the test item); response attributes (information about the correct answer and about possible incorrect answers); and sample items. Item specifications may be used in a variety of ways--for example, teachers may use them to develop evaluation instruments, to inform parents about the test, or to familiarize students with what to expect on the MPT. (SR)