The construction of test items, the purposes of testing and criterion-referenced testing are topics debated by two researchers. (CP)

The paper documents experiments designed to compare essay and multiple-choice tests as means of testing science learning. Results indicate it is easier to score high on multiple-choice tests; some students substitute quantity on essay tests; and essay tests reveal weaknesses hidden by multiple-choice tests. (RE)

Reviews a study that analyzed the inquiry-oriented matriculation tests of 12th-grade biology students (N=3650) in Israel for the purpose of finding the interrelationships among 21 process skills. Discusses the seven factors that emerged from factor analysis and indicates the theoretical and practical implications of the findings. (ML)

Reviews procedures followed in developing a set of science items for Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Geology content areas and examines the items' construct validity in relation to a specific technique of evaluation. Analysis supported the items' construct validity and viability for testing certain science skills at the secondary level. (ML)

Described is the development of a test battery measuring nine enquiry skills in three general areas: using reference materials, interpreting and processing information, critical thinking in science. Validation data are reported from the administration to a large sample of junior high science students. (CS)

This study used judgmental and statistical procedures to evaluate the items in a statewide, 78-item, multiple-choice test of science knowledge. Differences in outcomes for these procedures are discussed. Authors conclude that both procedures should be used in test construction. (PR)