Special-Needs Testing

Testers often ask how to accommodate a student’s special needs. Here are some of the most common needs and suggestions. Please feel free to call and ask about a specific situation. We love to help!

Needs

Dyslexia

There are several types of dyslexia so it is wise to ask detailed questions. How severe is the problem? Has a physician or psychologist given any instructions? A thorough diagnosis should include instructions for testing.

ADD/ADHD

Less is more. Less time at a sitting will give the student more attention. If a subtest is generally 30 minutes, split it into two 15-minute segments instead. This allows him a break to refocus. (A student may not return to questions already attempted.)

Accommodations

Reading Aloud

The more a student reads on his own, the better it reflects on his ability. Consider extending the time limits (see next section for details) or allowing the student to read aloud.

Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary may not be administered orally since doing so changes them from a measure of reading ability to a measure of listening ability.

Extending Time

Time sometimes may be extended up to 50%. For example, a 30-minute test may be given in 45 minutes. This allows the student to become familiar with being timed while still having his need accommodated. If time is extended more than 50%, it is considered untimed and should be noted as such.

Keep in mind that the Stanford, 10th edition, is already untimed.

Grading

Choosing the Right Level

Choose the test level that best matches the student’s actual curriculum level. Do not choose the test level for the grade the student should be working at. If a student is working at multiple levels, then match the majority of the core subjects (Reading, Language, and Math).

Testing

The Right Type

Achievement tests measure a student’s knowledge. Abilities tests measure a student’s reasoning skills for subjects, based on God-given ability levels. A combination test helps you determine if a student is working to his potential.

Some tests can be special—ordered for the visually or hearing impaired. Call us for details.