Scores improved modestly on the latest round of standardized tests for Michigan's high school students, the state announced Thursday.
The Michigan Merit Exam most often is taken in the spring of a student's junior year. Students who do well on the tests can qualify for up to $4,000 in state college scholarship money.
The percentage of public school students who scored at the proficient or advanced levels improved slightly in reading, writing and science this year compared to 2007 results. Social studies scores declined and math scores held steady.
Fewer than half of the students taking the test met or exceeded standards in some subjects.
Only 41 percent of students met or exceeded standards in writing, for example. But that was up from 40 percent in 2007.
Sixty-two percent of students scored proficient or better in reading, up from 60 percent a year ago. In science, 57 percent of students met the mark compared to 56 percent in 2007.
About 80 percent of students met or exceeded standards in social studies, down from 83 percent a year ago. Math scores remained the same at 46 percent.
"We are seeing the benefits of a renewed emphasis on high school achievement," State Board of Education President Kathleen Straus said in a statement. "Schools, parents, and students are becoming more aware that high school achievement is the launch pad to post-secondary success and greater opportunity for a high-paying career."
The Michigan Merit Exam includes an ACT college entrance exam. On average, Michigan students who took the ACT as part of the state test had an 18.8 composite score -- the same as last year's students.

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