Testing - A Giant in the Land

Testing on any level is usually not a positive situation. Too often, we as moms, feel that we are being tested. We wonder if we have been adequate, if we have done enough.

We need to remember that a test is a tool, not the final judge.

I chose to attend this workshop because their are so many testing options out there. And because hopefully it will ease my concerns and confusion.

Why Do We Test?

• to comply with NC law
• to get information
• to explore possible dysfunction

A test can be like a photograph - beautifully taken & very flattering or blurry & out of focus.

Norm-Referenced -
norm means compared
standard public school bubble test
score is based on comparison, not number correct/incorrect
created to compare large groups
administered to many students to find the average

• Stanford Achievement Test (SAT)
• Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS)
• California Achievement Test (CAT)
• TerraNova/CAT 6
• Personalized Achievement Summary System (PASS

Criterion Referenced -
score is directly from content
score based on correct/incorrect answers
verbal-interactive format

• Woodcock Johnson
• Brigance

Reading the results are very different. If your child takes a norm-referenced test while in the 3rd grade & the score states 7th grade 5th month, this does not mean they are reading on a 7th grade level. It means they are reading as well as a middle 7th grader would read 3rd grade material. However, if the same child takes a criterion referenced test & scores 7th grade 5th month, then they are truly reading on a 7th grade level.

How Do I Choose a Test?

• know your purpose
• know your child's ability & personality
• know yourself
• know your finances

Pros & Cons
Norm Referenced

• easy to get
• lower cost
• take longer
• not certain why they may miss something

Criterion Referenced

• specific errors are shown
• helpful for choosing next years curriculum
• less time consuming
• usually more expensive
• does not prepare for college or timed tests