Testing Intelligence


As individuals, we are all unique with our own special characteristics that make us who we are. So, when it comes to assessing children or measuring their intelligence, why should there be one standardized test that tests specific aspects of children’s intelligence?  Plus, considering we all have various learning styles, how could these types of tests be accurate?  When I was younger, I had problems with comprehension, and when it came to standardized tests, I would run out of time to complete certain sections.  I wasn’t smart or didn’t know the information, I just couldn’t retain it even if I read it five minutes prior. Assessments should focus on children as a whole, with all their abilities (creative, physical, musical, etc.) taken into consideration and appropriate for their age.

In Ontario, Canada, children new to the country are given preliminary assessment tests to find the correct grade placement, however not all school boards provide assessments. Children are tested on two areas: mathematics and language.  Both assessments take into account the child’s first language and also his/her ability to communicate in English.  The initial placement of students is not final and may change as need be.

Reference:
Settlement.Org (2015). How is my child assessed to start school in Ontario. Retrieved from
https://settlement.org/ontario/education/elementary-and-secondary-school/enrol-your-child-in-school/how-is-my-child-assessed-to-start-school-in-ontario/

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