In 1994/95 TIMSS (Third International Mathematics and Science Study) was conducted at five grade levels in more than 40 countries, including Australia. Almost 14 000 students from more than 570 lower secondary level classes and over 12 000 students from about 540 middle primary level classes from 349 schools around Australia were tested in mathematics and science. In addition, 3200 Year 12 students from 88 schools around Australia sat tests in advanced mathematics, physics or general mathematics and science literacy. Contextual information about the teaching and learning of mathematics and science was collected from students, teachers and schools.