Mississippi Foundations of Reading Practice Test

What is a criterion-referenced test designed to assess?

1. A student’s performance compared to peers

2. Development of skills item by item

3. General knowledge of all subjects

4. A broad assessment of classroom behavior

The correct answer is: Development of skills item by item

A criterion-referenced test is specifically designed to evaluate a student's performance based on predetermined standards or criteria, which means it assesses the development of skills item by item. This type of assessment focuses on whether students can demonstrate proficiency in a particular skill or set of skills, rather than comparing their performance to that of their peers. The intention behind criterion-referenced testing is to measure individual understanding and mastery of specific content areas, ensuring that students have acquired the necessary knowledge or skills outlined in the curriculum. As a result, educators can identify areas where students excel and where they might need additional support. The other options either imply comparisons to peers or encompass broader assessments that do not target specific skills, making them less aligned with the primary purpose of criterion-referenced tests.