The Florida Center for Reading Research (FCRR) Reading Assessment (FRA) consists of computer-adaptive reading comprehension and oral language screening tasks that provide measures to track growth over time, as well as a Probability of Literacy Success (PLS) linked to grade-level performance (i.e., the 50th percentile) on the reading comprehension…

Describes a method that uses age equivalents and standard scores to recreate the full range of variability in the scores of low-functioning individuals. The method allows for a more complete interpretation of performance that can lead to better educational and therapeutic programming. (Author/MCF)

The author argues that intelligence testing is an invaluable and irreplaceable tool for identifying gifted children and obtaining a measure of the urgency of their special educational needs. He also offers ideas for how parents of exceptionally gifted children can create an environment in which their children's gifts can flourish. (Author/CL)

The article reviews the origins of the intelligence testing movement in the U.S., discusses the difficulties inherent in measuring intelligence, and considers alternatives to current LD identification procedures. (CL)

The major purpose of this work is to provide information for teachers about intelligence testing; more specifically, how the revised Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-R) can be used practically. The purpose is not to make teachers into testers, but rather to make them more sophisticiated users of the information that they obtain from…

For mildly and moderately mentally retarded individuals, the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised measures at about the same level as the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, and, consequently, it also produces much higher IQs than the Wechsler children's scales or the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale, Form L-M, despite high intertest…

Noting that the collective stories of special education have grown out of a tradition that, by its nature tends to perpetuate problems, this book examines such narratives and how they influence thinking and belief about intelligence and learning. It begins by examining how the current story of intelligence developed and illustrates some of the…

This paper reviews Lev Vygotsky's theories concerning optimizing of potential through assistance, support, or instruction. The paper notes that there is a "zone of proximal development" or a band around intelligence quotient (IQ) scores reflecting one's true potential. IQ tests are generally well-standardized and "static,"…

This article offers advice on interpreting intelligence quotient (IQ) data and other results from intelligence tests. Myths regarding the practical applications and broader implications of IQ profiles are debunked. Several warnings are given regarding test use along with general statements of intelligence tests' strengths and weaknesses in…

A table is provided for determining the frequency of occurrence of Verbal-Performance discrepancies on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R) in profiles of high Intelligence Quotient children. Warnings are offered regarding the adverse effect of subtest substitution or omission when administering the WISC-R to highly…

Considers how IQ tests may not be an effective means of identifying English-as-a-second language (ESL) students with learning disabilities due to inherent cultural biases of the tests. Concludes that the use of IQ tests with ESL or English-dialect students is inappropriate when the student's first or primary language is different from the language…

Questions often raised about intelligence tests are discussed: (1) the definition of intelligence; (2) the definition of intelligence quotient; (3) the kinds of tests available; (4) validity; (5) fairness to minority groups; (6) use made of test results; (7) differences in results among various intelligence tests; (8) differences in scores using…

This text is designed not only as a teaching text but also as a reference source for students and professionals on the assessment of the cognitive development of children. Chapters address: (1) process challenges of assessing children; (2) context challenges in assessing children; (3) ethical, legal, and professional applications of assessment…

This article describes the author's courtroom experience as a witness for the defense in the Larry P. v. Wilson Riles case; provides excerpts of the testimony and cross-examination; and makes suggestions for individuals who may testify as expert witnesses. (Author/BW)

The article reviews the development of infant cognitive assessment and describes selected tests. Considerations in choosing, administering, and interpreting the results of infant intelligence/cognitive assessment instruments are outlined. The usefulness of cognitive assessment is discussed as are new approaches to assessment. (Author/DB)