Teachers as Readers: 1st big test

My first big test in school was the math regents exam, and I was in 8th grade at the time.  I remember completing test after test in that class (old regents exams).  I don't remember being nervous at the time, but I do remember feeling that it was a big deal.  I'm sure there were word problems on the test and remember being required to "show our work," but we were not required to explain any of the problems.  We just needed to provide the correct answer.