In this study I analysed the performance test items of middle school mathematics in 2004
national assessment of educational achievement. According to the codes of scoring rubric,
students\' responses were categorized to the types of error or the methods of problem solving.
And the characteristics of the achievement levels i.e. Advanced group, Proficient group, Basic
group and Below-Basic group were investigated. So I could tell the error types or the problem
solving methods of students reponses, and the characteristics of the achievement levels, suggest
the research for the improvement of mathematics education, and lead the school mathematics
assessment methods.