What is an IQ test?
- Vanessa Gunton
- Aug 28, 2021
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 17, 2024
An IQ test is an objective measure which can formally identify the level of intellectual functioning for a child’s age. There are different types of tests available that can be administered for children. One of the most commonly used assessments is the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Fifth Edition (WISC-V). This test examines cognitive abilities such as memory, reasoning, language and processing speed. Administration of the test is in a one on one format with a child and a qualified psychologist.
In some instances, the results from an IQ test confirm what parents may already sense about their child’s abilities such as having advanced intelligence for their age. For gifted children, the results of IQ testing can be particularly useful to share with educators so that a parents opinion is not seen as biased or unrealistic. Knowing the level of a child’s intelligence can be helpful as different supports and considerations in the classroom are sometimes required depending on the ability of a child. For example, an IQ assessment can provide schools with an additional measure to consider when making decisions about grade or subject acceleration and for placement into gifted and talented programmes.
It is important to recognise that IQ tests have limitations and only provide a snapshot of a child's abilities at the time of the assessment. Some children, for various reasons, may not demonstrate their full potential on the assessment. In addition, IQ tests do not assess all aspects of intelligence such as creativity or social competence.
IQ tests can, however, provide provide useful information for parents and teachers to consider when making educational decisions about a child. They can also help identify areas of individual strength and weakness in children. In addition, IQ tests provide important information to help with the identification of specific learning disorders such as Dyslexia.
Butterfly Psychology for Kids conducts intellectual assessments for children aged 6-16 years. The assessment tool used is the WISC-V. A consultation with parents following the assessment is provided along with a comprehensive psychological report detailing the results the testing.
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