Containing data gathered in the 1979-80 assessment of reading and literature conducted by the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), this report is devoted to the results of the reading comprehension and study skills portions of the assessment. A brief introduction provides information about the students surveyed and the measures used…

A study was undertaken to determine if a criterion referenced test based on a Piagetian stage model of reading acquisition was related to grade level, to a standardized reading achievement test, and to a test of cognitive developmental level. Sixty first, second, and third grade children were administered a comprehensive test of basic skills. They…

This book is intended for teachers of second and foreign languages who use and construct tests while they teach. The emphasis is on the process of testing, as well as the process involved in taking a test. The five chapters treat the following points: (1) an overview of classroom testing, its nature, process, and value; (2) a theoretical framework…

Two approaches to criterion-referenced test construction are compared. Classical test theory is based on the practice of random sampling from a well-defined domain of test items; latent trait theory suggests that the difficulty of the items should be matched to the achievement level of the student. In addition to these two methods of test…

Formulas are presented for decision reliability and for classification validity for mastery/nonmastery decisions based on criterion referenced tests. Two item parameters are used: the probability of a master answering an item correctly, and the probability of a nonmaster answering an item incorrectly. The theory explores the relationships of…

The Army Skill Qualification Tests (SQT's) were designed to determine levels of competence in performance of the tasks crucial to an enlisted soldier's occupational specialty. SQT's are performance-based, criterion-referenced measures which offer two advantages over traditional proficiency and achievement testing programs: test content can be made…

Part of a series of competency-based test materials for grades six through ten, this test booklet for seventh graders contains multiple-choice questions designed to aid in the evaluation of the pupils' library skills. Accompanied by a separate booklet of illustrations which are to be used in conjunction with the questions, the test covers the…

One of 33 self-paced instructional modules for training industry services leaders to provide guidance in the performance of manpower services by public agencies to new or expanding private industries, this module contains three sequential learning activities on developing performance tests for industry services programs. The first learning…

Since its inception in 1970, the Migrant Student Record Transfer System (MSRTS) has proved to be an invaluable tool for transferring academic and medical information for migrant children as they continually move from place to place. The program has provided educational continuity for the children, aided administrators in the coordination of…

After reviewing the history and evolution of criterion referenced tests and citing the writings of other researchers, the author summarizes the current state of criterion referenced tests. They are used to measure an individual's status with respect to a well-defined behavior domain; the behavior domain can be well-ordered, structured, or…

Several intermediate performance objectives and corresponding criterion measures are listed for each of five terminal objectives for a 12- to 18-week course in which junior high school students explore institutional home management and supportive service occupations. Major concepts covered include awareness of the operation of institutional and…

The Michigan accountability system, based on statewide objectives-referenced testing at two grade levels generated considerable controversy, including this response to criticisms of an evaluation of the program by a panel of three persons. The contract under which the evaluation was performed is quoted to show that the authors of the report were…

The 1973 statewide (Maryland) educational accountability plan, for which this report was compiled, called for the development and establishment of statewide and local goals in reading, writing, and mathematics; a comprehensive and uniform statewide testing program; procedures for collecting data on student, home, community, and school…

Criterion-referenced proficiency examinations have been prepared for entry level occupational therapists and entry level occupational therapy assistants. Item development was based on a task inventory solicited from occupational therapists throughout the country, with six occupational therapists reviewing test development. A small scale pilot test…