In this module, Cate discusses the validity of standardized tests and whether they measure what they claim to measure. Read More
Category: Percentile
Percentile is a type of score used in norm-referenced testing. The percentile indicates what percent of participants’ scores from the norming sample fall below an individual’s score on the test. For example, if a child scores at the 50th percentile on the PLS-5, this indicates that 50% of the norming sample participants scored below the child on the PLS-5.
Test Scores and Disproportionate Referrals (Preschool Disability Evaluations: Module 04)
In this module, Cate discusses the consequences of using test scores to determine disability. Read More
Understanding Assessment: Understanding the Hologram
A hologram is a description of a child within an evaluation that illustrates the child’s strengths and weaknesses for the reader. The hologram should include examples that show the child’s ability to learn and highest level of functioning, as well as a description of when his or her skills break down. Read More
Understanding Assessment: Understanding the Normal Distribution
A normal distribution, also called a bell curve, occurs when variables (i.e., test scores) plotted on a graph fall into a regular distribution around a single mean. In a normal distribution, about 96% of the scores will fall within 2 standard deviations of the mean. Read More
Understanding Assessment: Problems with Percentile Rank and Age Equivalency
The percentile rank of a score is percentage of total scores from the normative sample that were equal or lesser than the value of the score. It can be plotted on the bell curve of a normal distribution. Read More
