Selected Procedures for Improving the Mathematics Curriculum: Assessment. ERIC/SMEAC Mathematics Education Digest No. 2.

While 1990 was the year of reform recommendations in mathematics education, 1991 may become the year of assessment in mathematics education. The growth of assessment activities stems from the belief that the primary purpose of assessment is the improvement of teaching. The digest reviews trends in mathematics assessment. Discussed are the sudden emphasis on assessment; how schools can improve their methods of assessing students; how assessment can be used to improve instruction; what changes are taking place in state testing programs; what is happening in college entrance examinations programs; what is happening in assessment at the national level; and what schools can do to improve themselves. A list of 11 selected references is included. (CW)