Tools for Identifying High Ability Students

Experts agree that there is no perfect identification system; indeed, the identification of high ability students is probably the most controversial aspect of providing programs for high ability students.  If appropriate procedures are followed (see Key Ideas about Identification) practitioners consider both the characteristics and the needs of high ability students in assessing them for high ability programs.

Assessments are an integral part of the identification system.  The following are common assessments or tools used to identify high ability students.

General Cognitive Ability:

• California Achievement Test
• Cognitive Abilities Test
• Iowa Tests of Basic Skills
• Otis-Lenon School Abilities Test
• SRBCSa
• Science Research Associates Achievement Test
• Stanford Achievement Test
• Structure of Intellect Test
• Test of Cognitive Skills

General Academic Ability

• California Achievement Test
• Cognitive Abilities Test
• Iowa Tests of Basic Skills
• Metropolitan Achievement Test
• Otis-Lenon School Abilities Test
• SRBCSa
• Science Research Associates Achievement Test

Mathematical/Logical Ability

• California Achievement Test
• Iowa Tests of Basic Skills

Creativity

• SRBCSa

Task Commitment

• SRBCSa