This project involves the implementation of an assessment system for a middle-school science curriculum–SEPUP. The assessment system features 1) a set of "Issues Oriented Science" variables that define student learning over the curriculum year, 2) embedded assessments that are as varied as the hands-on curriculum, 3) a staff-development process that has as its essential element teachers working together to assess their students’ progress, and 4) the maintenance of high standards of fairness and validity. This project is currently researching ways to enhance this system, through 1) development of new ways to map student progress and enhance interpretability of assessment results by teachers, 2) improvements in the design of group activities to strengthen teacher understanding of the meaning and practice of assessment, and 3) creation of teacher training and technical support materials, such as the expansion of data gathering techniques to include hand-held digital devices.The principal investigator is Mark Wilson. Karen Draney is the project director.