These tests also usually include scientific articles that are used to test whether students can figure out basic facts presented in an article. But that's only one part of reading comprehension. Students also must be able to understand the structure of the text, themes, use of devices like metaphors and similes, etc. These are higher-level concepts, but still objective ones. And they are present in all types of writing, not only technical articles. This particular set of questions is directed at evaluating those skills.

The tests don't purported to be "testing ability at deep literary criticism." The kids aren't learning poetry, they're reading poetry to help develop general reading comprehension skills. If you look at the STAARS curriculum for Grade 8, the tested skills include:

> Students understand, make inferences and draw conclusions about the structure and elements of poetry and provide evidence from text to support their understanding.

That's exactly what the questions are asking about: the structure and elements of the poem.

>then give them a piece of technical writing, and then ask them whether the nuts should be screwed tight before or after the wooden pieces are put in their slots.

And I'm sure they do get technical writing samples to analyze. Also poetry. Why? Why not! Why not, vary it up a bit. They could have done the same exercise with Rap lyrics.

Again, I'm not sure what the problem is?

>They want to PRETEND to be testing ability at deep literary criticism.

I think you need to manage your expectations. Kids aren't going to give you 'deep literary criticism'.