In a sample of 195 first graders selected for poor reading performance, the authors explored four cognitive predictors of later reading comprehension and reading disability (RD) status. In fall of first grade, the authors measured the children's phonological processing, rapid automatized naming (RAN), oral language comprehension, and nonverbal…

The concurrent validity of three types of reading ability assessments was evaluated with 312 Australian primary-level children. Results suggest that the nature of the skills required for success in reading changes in the primary years, and that both teacher-based and test-based assessments concur more closely as children progress through the…

Correlations between the two screening tests and between the screening and criterion measures were inconsistent with prediction rates based on classificational screening test scores. On the basis of correlational validity coefficients, relationships between measures in this study would have been overestimated. (Author/SBH)

The purpose of the study was to determine if the Weber (Utah) district screening program predicted the reading scores of 351 primary grade students. It was concluded that the screening program has very limited value in identifying children with learning problems. (Author)

This study examined the diagnostic utility of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Third Edition Developmental Index (WDI), a measure of neuropsychological deficits. It found that the WDI performed at chance levels when distinguishing 611 students diagnosed with learning disabilities from those diagnosed with emotional disturbances (n=80)…

Twenty-two elementary-aged children with reading difficulties were administered multiple assessments, including the Matching Familiar Figures Test (MFFT), Simple Reaction Time, and Complex Reaction Time. Results did not support a relationship between impulsivity, as measured by the MFFT, and academic progress in a classroom setting. (Author/JDD)

This study examined the utility of Wechsler's Deterioration Index, which compares short- and long-term memory capabilities. Three studies with a total of 120 children (ages 6-14) found that the index did not predict learning disability status but did distinguish children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder from nondisabled children.…