The Colorado Model Content Standards for Science specify what all students should know and be able to do in science as a result of their school studies. These standards reflect high expectations and outline the essential level of science knowledge and skills needed by all citizens to participate productively in an increasingly technological…

The guide explains the roles of standards-based assessment in various contexts involving students who are learning English as a second language (ESL). It is designed to accompany the "ESL Standards for Pre-K-12 Students," a document that sets out the language competencies needed by ESL students to become fully proficient in English, have…

This booklet examines ways to promote student success in a California standards-based system. It reviews the history of social promotion and retention in the United States and suggests why it is time to move beyond the "either/or" mindset. The booklet suggests that neither social promotion nor retention solves the basic problem of…

To assist parents and educators in preparing students for the 21st century, Wisconsin citizens have become involved in the development of challenging academic standards in 12 curricular areas. Having clear standards for students and teachers makes it possible to develop rigorous local curricula and valid, reliable assessments. This model of…

The first of two documents presented, "Better Mathematics for K-8" (Iris M. Carl), describes the underlying assumptions, purpose, origin, formation, goals, and content of the "Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics" produced by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). Information on implementing the Standards is…

This document is the result of a two-year process to develop a complete music curriculum and standards guide for Maine schools. It is arranged in four parts or "strands." Strand 1 covers classroom music from kindergarten through grade 12. Strand 2 addresses the vocal music program, and strand 3 the instrumental program for the same…

This study examines retention rates in Dade County (Florida) schools, using aggregate statistical data for the school years 1982-83 through 1988-89 to describe existing patterns and changes over time. An earlier study established commonalities of pattern across grades, over great disparities of circumstances, and across time. The following…

This test administration plan sets forth the terms and conditions governing the administration of the College Level Academic Skills Test (CLAST), an instrument designed to measure the achievement of the communication and computation skills expected of all students by the time they complete their sophomore year. CLAST scores are required of all…

College is a place for students who really want to earn an education--that is, for students willing to move toward academic excellence and to excell. Lowering standards for any ethnic group dooms that group to the "junk heap of no success." Today, at great cost to the nation, America keeps too many students who are not university…

A rationale, goals, and the procedure for instituting a quality point system to assess high school students' academic achievement in Gainesville (Georgia) High School are outlined. Hypothetical examples of converting grade point averages to quality point averages in low, average, and high difficulty courses are provided to show the impact of the…

Author looks into the workings of the Oxford and Cambridge Schools Examination Board. (Editor/RK)

Prodigality of funds in academic channels has led to unexpected results: while some improved scholarship has been accomplished, mass subsidy has changed the tone of the university and the attitudes and activities of its participants. (JH)

A postsecondary marketing or distributive education program should attempt to (1) provide basic concepts of business and industry, (2) provide specialized learning situations to qualify students for specific jobs and/or advanced degrees, and (3) assist the student in his personal development. (Author/MW)

Characterizes the University of Massachusetts School of Education Program as dynamic and creative and as offering a quality program based on change and innovation. (Author/DW)