The implications that cognitive approaches to the study of reading can have for the assessment of reading achievement are discussed. Research in word decoding, semantic access, sentence processing, and discourse analysis is summarized with emphasis on processing efficiency required in one area affecting performance in another area. (Author/CM)

This study replicated Daneman and Carpenter's finding that the reading span test, as a measure of working memory storage and process functions, is predictive of performance on standard reading comprehension tests. It showed that reading span is related to the ability to draw inferences from, integrate, and encode text information. (Author/PN)

Reports that in a low-risk reading lesson activity, individual differences among students appeared as a function of the type of verbal interaction pattern or "register" with their teacher, while in a high-risk standardized test condition, individual differences appeared as a function of reading ability. (Author/MKM)

Reports research results suggesting that teachers need to assess several facets of reading comprehension, such as vocabulary, comprehension of passages, and speed of reading, in order to obtain an adequate picture of students' reading skills. (AEA)

Illustrates the importance of carefully interpreting reading test results. (JT)

Compares seven reading expectancy formulae after converting each to stanines to determine whether the more stabilized formulae would produce similar decisions as to whether a student should be referred for further diagnosis. (FL)

Examined the effects of readers' gender and passage content on second language (L2) reading comprehension. Participants--who were intermediate Spanish learners--read two different authentic passages. Two measures were used to assess comprehension: A written recall and multiple-choice questions. Findings reveal significant interactions between…

This article explains how teachers can construct curriculum-based assessments (CBA), using state academic standards, to measure the reading skills and progress of elementary students with mild disabilities. Two mini-cases illustrate the creation of CBA test items based on individual educational goals and the Indiana Academic Standards. (Contains…

Three mildly retarded 11 year olds were administered reading probes for a period of 4 months, and number of words read correctly were compared to student performance on a criterion-referenced mastery test. Findings questioned whether such probes alone yield sufficient information for making program decisions during the course of instruction.…

Discusses the global and analytical approaches to reading assessment. Points out that the first approaches reading as a self-contained activity, while the second presupposes both a reading model and a reader model. Applies each to the context of reading assessment in France. Suggests discarding the global approach as a diagnostic tool. (KO)

Investigates whether the Nelson-Denny Reading Test's time restrictions may bias the performances of marginal students. Finds that the Nelson-Denny scores alone may provide biased measures of reading ability. Recommends that test makers develop extended time norms. (MG)

Instead of decoding sentences, good readers build meaning by integrating their knowledge with the text. Reading assessment must shift from traditional quantifiable tests to a portfolio system incorporating multiple measures and indicators of expertise. Michigan and Illinois efforts to translate interactive reading theory into assessment practices…

Explores the problems faced in the testing of reading. Discusses research that assists administrators and instructors in choosing various standardized tests, and describes existing alternatives to traditional forms of testing. (RS)