Asserts that concern for academic success across the curriculum should extend beyond raising test scores. Contends that in the wake of the terrorist acts of 9/11/01, issues of public security and civil liberties present an opportunity for teachers to teach the Constitution and its amendments in an effort to fight citizen ignorance. (SD)

Problems concerning the misuse of tests by teachers and administrators are discussed. Two common misconceptions of the basic function of tests are: (1) the test as an incentive for study; and (2) the test as a learning experience. Rather, a test should be conceived of as a measuring instrument. More appropriate conceptions of tests are: (1) tests…