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Katie Couric's Notebook: Standardized Tests

Remember those standardized tests in school every year? You know...if Lynn's car averages 22 miles a gallon, and she drives 200 miles today and 240 tomorrow?

And then you had to make sure to fill in the right bubble on the answer sheet!

Well, you can put away your number two pencils. Because those tests will soon be history. 44 states are working together to design new ones set to debut in four years.

Students would take them on computers which could adjust questions based on each child's performance. Instead of being just multiple choice, these exams would be more complicated and could include research projects. They'd also be able to test a child's speaking and listening skills.

And they won't be just once a year anymore. Students would take them several times a year so teachers could better measure progress...and help kids who, like me, don't have a clue how much gas Lynn needs in her tank.

That's a page from my notebook.

I'm Katie Couric, CBS News.

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