This book is a practical guide for assessing the intended learning outcomes of classroom instruction. It is based on the premise that assessment of student achievement plays a vital role in instruction and that the main goal of assessment is to improve learning. The new title of this sixth edition reflects a shift from major concern with classroom testing to a greater emphasis on other types of achievement assessments. Material is presented in a simple, direct, and understandable manner that does not slight basic concepts or sacrifice technical accuracy. The following chapters are included: (1) "Achievement Assessment and Instruction"; (2) "Nature of Student Assessment"; (3) "Planning the Achievement Test"; (4) "Writing Selection Items: Multiple-Choice"; (5) "Writing Selection Items: True-False, Matching, and Interpretive Exercise"; (6) "Writing Supply Items: Short Answer and Essay"; (7) "Assembling, Administering, and Evaluating the Test"; (8) "Making Performance Assessments"; (9) "Assigning Grades"; (10) "Interpreting Standardized Achievement Test Scores"; and (11) "Validity and Reliability." Each chapter contains an initial outline, a summary of points, and suggestions for further reading. (Contains 13 figures and 14 references.) (SLD)