Describes a test writing program for a 48K memory Apple microcomputer with lower-case capability. The program permits the production of any number of different tests and also different forms of the same multiple-choice or essay test. (JN)

Indicates that the language in which a multiple-choice question is couched may be a significant factor in student performance. Effects of changing key words, terms of quantity, negative to positive forms, and from passive to active voice are discussed. Also discusses the effect of rewording long or complex questions. (JN)

This study explored some aspects of reasoning needed to complete science performance assessments, i.e., students' hands-on investigations scored for the scientific justifiability of the findings. The reasoning demands of science performance assessments were studied focusing on three dimensions identified from a previous analysis of data from the…

This study examined the role of affect and conation in high school students science test performance, using a sample of 491 students. It provides a profile of partial corrections of standardized multiple-choice and constructed response test scores with affect and conation scores (after accounting for general ability and student background) at…

This document reports on the performance of Scottish primary students in mathematics and science. Students scored below the international average in mathematics and are ranked in the lower half of the range of countries involved in the study. In science, students scored above the international average and are ranked in the middle. Sections…

A recently completed landmark study of mathematics and science education in more than 40 countries gathered information that can help address questions as to why students in one country do better in math and science than students in another. This report focuses on the results of the primary school science test of students in 26 countries, from the…

An important component of the Bridging study involves the collection of achievement data using sets of derived test items from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), as well as new items which reflect state and national standards in science. From these test data, student achievement measures are computed, then these measures are…

This booklet summarizes the findings of the survey of science attainment carried out in 1993 by a team of researchers at Jordanhill Campus, Strathclyde University. The assessment tasks were used with a sample of pupils, selected to be representative of all pupils in Scotland, at three stages--primary 4, primary 7, and secondary 2. The report…

With the administration of the 2002 Delaware Student Testing Program (DSTP), a questionnaire was given to students in grades 3, 5, 8, and 10 about Opportunity to Learn, Reading, Writing, and Mathematics, and to all students in grades 4, 6, 8, and 11 about Opportunity to Learn, Science, and Social Studies. Students responses to the questions were…

Evidence provided by analysis of science scale scores on the McGraw-Hill CTB/4 science test for grades 2 through 8 in Tennessee, part of the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP), shows that it is possible for high achieving school systems to show continuous improvement from year to year. These results would tend to offset fears that…

A test for measuring attitudes toward animal life (Fireman Test) was developed. The test was determined to be reliable, valid, free from social-response biases, easy to administer and score, and potentially useful in ascertaining whether changes in attitudes have occurred as a result of some planned intervention. (Author/JN)

Details the Fairfax County, Virginia elementary science program, a key feature of which is the use of self-contained kits and instructional materials. Shows how the curriculum has improved students' achievement tests scores and is beginning to be adapted for mathematics, computer, and music education. (SK)

Presents data indicating that a large number of multiple-choice problems gives a reasonable correlation with hand-graded problems. (SK)

Lists a number of ways in which science teachers can emphasize the development of thinking skills as demonstrated by writing. Discusses the elimination of multiple choice questions, replacement of long term papers with shorter papers, and revision of textbook questions used in assignments. (CS)

Discusses several questions concerning the nature of cognitive preferences and their measurement. These questions are of two types: logical, pertaining to matters of principles; and methodological, pertaining to matters of procedures. (HM)