Seven short articles on the use of standardized tests in the United States are presented. Topics include: (1) the effects on school restructuring during the 1990's of the backlash against standardized tests; (2) the movement to replace multiple-choice standardized testing and its relationship with curricular goals; (3) the influence of standardized tests on the movement away from emphasis on higher-order skills and toward basic skills; (4) the history of standardized testing; (5) political and economic factors of standard testing versus "authentic testing"; (6) efforts in California, Connecticut, and Michigan to move away from standardized testing; and (7) experimentation by school districts in the area of performance-based assessments. A 12-item bibliography of recommended reading materials is appended. (TJH)