Formative evaluation emphasizes continuous assessment within a unit of study. There are many ways which may be used by the reading teacher to ascertain pupil achievement: teacher observation, a checklist of important reading behaviors, rating scales, anecdotal statements, teacher written tests, class discussions, self evaluation forms, parent/teacher conferences, data from state mandated tests, and input from teacher aides, student teachers, and substitute teachers. State mandated tests may be improved by addressing their validity and reliability, by presenting data to teachers early in the school year so instruction may be altered, by being pilot tested, and by making accommodations for the handicapped. Teacher accountability may well be shown in portfolio form, and might include snapshots of pupil products, representative papers of pupil work, awards and recognition received by the teacher, and certificates of attendance at workshops. Ratings given by supervisors pertaining to the quality of teaching need inclusion in the portfolio as well and may be used in formative evaluation to improve ongoing instruction. (RS)