HOW DID IT BEGIN?

Intelligence testing began in the 1900s to identify children who needed specialized assistance with school. During World War I intelligence tests known as the Army Alpha and Beta tests were used to determine which soldiers were more suited for leadership positions. In 1955, American psychologist, David Wechsler, developed a series of intelligence tests to test preschool children, school age children, and adults. Wechsler’s intelligence tests are widely used today to determine learning disabilities and gifted ability.

WHAT IS INTELLIGENCE TESTING?

Intelligence testing is a bit like a brainteaser. The individual taking the test is asked to translate a code using a key, find missing objects in pictures, and manipulate blocks to replicate abstract designs. Sounds fun, right?

SHOULD I HAVE MY CHILD TESTED?

If your child is struggling academically or has been identified as having attention deficit hyperactivity disorder an IQ test yields significant information that can aide the school in determining individualized modifications and accommodations. IQ testing is a necessary component of a comprehensive evaluation, not because of the score it provides, but the wealth of information it delivers concerning the child’s cognitive processing ability or problem-solving skills. Since all children are unique, understanding how they solve problems is fundamental to determining how to educate them. Children do not all learn the same way. Some children require visual support, others need auditory support, and a growing number of children necessitate extended time or simple directions. Finally, all children need movement breaks to varying degrees, but that is a discussion for another post…