The symbolic function of curricular debate, as it is manifested in the minimum competency testing movement (MCT), is investigated. Curricular debate necessarily reflects the demands of the society in which it arises. The topics that are addressed spring from this milieu and the language in which issues are couched must be appropriate to it.…

The Texas Assessment of Basic Skills (TABS) is described. Specifications are listed for TABS objectives in mathematics reading, and writing for grades 3, 5 and exit level (grades 6-12). It is intended that sections of the publication will be distributed to curriculum planners and appropriate teachers to assist in their determination of whether…

Larger high schools were surveyed about curricular changes planned or made in response to the Competency Testing and Back to Basics movements. Questions concerned changes in basic skills emphasis, graduation requirements, and competency test usage in mathematics, reading, and writing. Results are given for each questionnaire item. (SJL)

The Truckee Meadows Community College curriculum development project was designed to enhance the success of underprepared college students aspiring to succeed in the college's occupational and general educational programs. Initial plans called for (1) the development of individualized learning and basic skills modules; (2) creation of an…

A discussion of the nature and scope of basic skills training introduces a series of recommendations for the improved effectiveness of this training based on a survey of California community colleges. The first sections of this report discuss issues of community college responsibility for basic skills training, its priority as an institutional…