Describes how to create a rubric for portfolios which includes quantity and quality. Presents suggestions for implementing a two-tiered portfolio rubric. (RS)

In this study, rubrics were developed using teacher expectations, alignment with assignment objectives, and learner interests and needs. Twenty-three teachers taking master's-level coursework in gifted education learned about the flexible rubric assessment. The three-phase implementation plan took 15 weeks and allowed participants to take control…

The phenomenon of scale shrinkage is examined. Focus is on the pattern of decreasing variances in item response theory scale scores from fall to spring within a grade. It is demonstrated that questions concerning population distributions of true ability can be addressed with empirical Bayes techniques. (TJH)

If annual performance assessments are to yield results that can be compared from year to year, many technical problems must be addressed. It is essential that tests to be equated measure the same construct. Methods of equating performance assessment scores, ways of equating system assessments, and standard setting are discussed. (SLD)

Reviews the place of rating scales in second-language measurement and summarizes some of the problems associated with them. Standard and alternative scales were studied. High agreement among raters can be achieved even under conditions not favorable to high interrater reliability. The full range of score categories are effectively utilized. (17…

This special issue demonstrates the symmetry and rigor of probabilistic conjoint measurement in practical applications in education and other human sciences. Following the opening chapter introducing the theory, other chapters focus on conjoint measurement in testing and student evaluation, standard setting, and the study of behavior and attitude.…

Analysis of nearly 1,800 essays written by 17-year-old African-American students were examined in terms of the frequency and distribution of Black English Vernacular (BEV) and the covariance of BEV with rater scores. Results suggests that BEV has converged with Edited American/Standard English and that students were not penalized for BEV in…

Describes one teacher's implementation of subjective grading to assess student's achievement on mathematics tests. Reports student and parent reactions to the method. Shares five practices that developed with the experiences, and provides an example of the grading policy utilized. (MDH)

Context-dependent item sets, containing a subset of test items related to a passage or stimulus, are discussed. A brief review of methods for developing item sets reveals their potential for measuring high-level thinking. Theories and technologies for scoring item sets remain largely experimental. Research needs are discussed. (SLD)

This paper provides the basis for understanding score equating through item response theory (IRT). Theoretical justifications and practical advantages of IRT true-score test procedures are discussed. Three steps in the equating process are specified, and a self-test is included. (SLD)

An Australian study investigated multidimensionality in college entrance examination scores. Data from the American College Testing Program (ACT) and Australian Tertiary Entrance scores (which combines year 12 course grades and scores on the Australian Scholastic Aptitude Test) were analyzed using a 4-dimensional model. Results suggest a single…

Three professors share techniques for helping students focus on assessments required in classes. Charts are used to show students the specific concepts, principles, and problems that will be included on multiple-choice tests; rubrics developed for assigned work are used to increase student expectations and direct their explorations; and negotiated…

Discusses and demonstrates combining scores from multiple-choice (MC) and constructed-response (CR) items to create a common scale using Item Response Theory methodology. Provides empirical results using a set of tests in reading, language, mathematics, and science in three grades. (SLD)

Describes how and why the author has students in his composition classes collaboratively create scoring guides. Argues that this focuses students on the goals of the paper and provides a clear notion of how to improve their own performance. Offers scoring guides. Comments on the process that created them. Offers guidelines for using scoring guides…

Describes criterion-referenced assessment that involves the teacher establishing what should be assessed, the standards for assessment, and then finally utilizing a rubric. Discusses the use of criterion-referenced assessment in social studies and humanities classes, the students' role in developing the rubrics, and the success of this type of…