Using Test Scores

There are many, many factors that determine the best academic plan for a gifted child at any point in time. Out-of-level test scores can provide one piece of the puzzle.  For example, when I served as a GT coordinator, we used NUMATS results to provide some flexible guidelines for varying tiers of programming:

Recommended Options 

based on NUMATS Statistical Summary  

(adapted from CTD recommendations for use in our district, 2005)

Tier 3 Interventions

EXPLORE, ACT and SAT score ranks at or above 95 for normal grade level

1. Compression of school courses into shorter time periods via curriculum compacting
2. Access to advanced placement early
3. Long-range academic planning
4. Individualized program of study, using diagnostic-prescriptive approach in areas of strength
5. Consider grade acceleration or early admissions to college
6. Mentorship for advanced study in areas of strength
7. Early career counseling
8. Fast-paced summer classes in area of strength

Tier 2 Interventions

EXPLORE, ACT and SAT score ranks from 50 to 94 for normal grade level

1. Compression of school courses into shorter time periods via curriculum compacting
2. Access to advanced placement early
3. Long-range academic planning
4. Early career counseling
5. Fast-paced summer classes in area of strength

Tier 1 Interventions

EXPLORE, ACT and SAT score ranks up to 50 for normal grade level

1. Elimination of repetitive work through in-class differentiation and curriculum compacting  
2. In-school enrichment programs in tested areas of strength
3. Long-term academic planning
4. Early access to advanced courses
5. Supplement coursework with enrichment-oriented summer programs

The words of my former colleague, Lori, always ring in my head, "Use the data."   

Awareness of what their test scores indicate is vital for gifted students as they develop their learner profiles.