The normative and mastery grading systems are characterized and some assumptions basic to each are contrasted under the headings of knowledge, teaching, and students. Teachers, it is suggested, can work to avoid destructive influences of the teacher-student-grading relationship by careful subject matter preparation, grading system selection, etc.…

A question and answer dialogue is presented that addresses some of the common barriers encountered by writers of criterion-referenced tests. The guidelines deal with performance objectives, intended outcomes, test items for higher levels of learning, compiling test items, managing item construction, and limitations of the criterion test. (JMD)