Each year, school systems around the country administer standardized assessment and achievement tests to millions of children. Because they fear­­often correctly­­that the results of these tests will profoundly affect their children's future, many parents regard standardized tests with apprehension, confusion, and even panic.

Written by a leading authority on the subject, this book demystifies standardized tests for parents and arms them with the knowledge they need to help their kids score high. Psychologist Joseph Harris explains, in plain English, what standardized testing is all about, clarifying the sometimes puzzling distinctions among assessment, achievement, and aptitude tests. He takes a close look at each of the commonly administered tests, explaining what various test scores mean, how to interpret test results, how to compare results from different tests, and how to use test results to help optimize a child's learning experience. He also provides helpful advice and guidance for parents of gifted and special-needs children.

Covers these major tests:

• Iowa Test of Basic Skills
• California Achievement Tests
• Metropolitan Achievement Test
• Terra Nova