What factors make science test items especially difficult for students from minority groups

摘要: Substantial gaps in science performance between majority and minority students are often found instandardized tests used primary school. But at the item level, may vary significantly. Theaims of this study are: (1) to identify features test items (grade 5 grade 8 students) that can potentially explain group differences; (2) analyze what factors make itemsespecially difficult for students. Explanatory variables such as reading load, difficulty,item writing use multiple-choice format be major factors. The analysis reveals no empirical relationships gap either subject domain, location, or number illustrations item. Subtle issues regarding design ofitems influence size level over above main explanatory variables. reduced significantly by choosing “minority friendly” items.