IQ Test For Early Entrance to Kindergarten
By Inderbir Kaur Sandhu, Ph.D
Q:
My daughter was recently screened for early entrance to Kindergarten
using the KBIT-2 and Beery VMI-6. We were given very limited feedback on
what the scores were and what they indicate and therefore little wiggle
room with which to appeal the decision.
For the KBIT-2 the district cut-off is greater than or equal to 120. Our
daughter (4 years 6 months) scored 116. (No indication of
verbal/non-verbal distinction, only that one score).
For the Beery VMI-6 the district cut-off is 14, and our daughter scored
13.
She met the minimum criteria for Fine/Gross Motor skills and Fluharty-2
for Articulation (11) and Language (44). She also met the minimum
requirement for social/emotional readiness based on a SSIS parent
rating.
Can you provide any insight on the KBIT-2 and Beery VMI-6 and if this
seems on track for entrance to kindergarten? Washington state has an
entrance cut-off for birthdays after August 31. Our daughter will be 5
in October. Thank you!
A:
The Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test, Second Edition (K-BIT 2) is used to
measure verbal and nonverbal cognitive ability. It is used to obtain a
quick estimate of intelligence, estimate an individual's verbal versus
nonverbal intelligence and/or to screen to identify students who may
benefit from enrichment or gifted programs. Additionally, this test is
also able to identify high-risk children through large-scale screening
who may require a more comprehensive evaluation. So, briefly, it serves
the purpose to provide a relatively quick and accurate estimate of
abilities; and to identify students who may benefit from gifted or
enrichment programs.
This test is developed by leading cognitive ability experts Alan and
Nadeen Kaufman, therefore, it is assumed that this test provides highly
valid, reliable results and is useful for a broad range of purposes.
With the test package, a scoring and administrative manual is provided,
so it is quite easy to use the materials. Hence, scores given by the
school is accurate based on the correct use of the scoring manual.
Having said that, the teacher in charge of the test should at least have
good knowledge on the principles of measurement and in the
administration and interpretation of tests.
Based on a mean of 100 and standard deviation of 15, your daughter
scores are almost borderline to above average scores (about 85-115
should be within the average range on a bell curve) for the K-BIT-2. Her
scores are on the border for above average scores, which indicate higher
abilities. The KBIT-2 yields three scores: Verbal, Nonverbal, and the IQ
Composite. The Verbal score comprises two subtests (Verbal Knowledge and
Riddles) and measures verbal, school-related skills by assessing a
person's word knowledge, range of general information, verbal concept
formation, and reasoning ability. The Nonverbal score (the Matrices
subtest) measures the ability to perceive relationships and complete
visual analogies. All Matrices items involve pictures or abstract
designs rather than words. There should have been verbal and non verbal
scores - you may want to find out. However, the IQ composite is the
score used for placement and decisions for acceleration or special
programmes.
I am not very familiar with the Beery VMI-6 (Beery-Buktenica
Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration). From what I know this
test identifies individuals who may be encountering difficulties in
visual-motor integration, and makes appropriate referrals for needed
services. It also assesses the effectiveness of educational and other
interventions. In short it helps assess the extent to which individuals
can integrate their visual and motor abilities. The test is researched
to be reliable. However, given that it tests young children in this
case, child's behaviour during the test can affect results.
It appears that both the scores are borderline so perhaps it would be
good for you to consult the school should you strongly feel that your
daughter would benefit early schooling. Results as such can be treated
on a case to case basis and perhaps she may be tested further to
validate their decision. Best of luck!
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