The CogAT test is a cognitive abilities test that assesses students' reasoning and problem solving abilities. Results are used to predict success in school. The test measures in verbal, quantitative and nonverbal ways.
Aptitude Test
The CogAT test is given to all grades, from Kindergarten through grade 12. CogAT is an aptitude test, whereas the Iowa Test, another widely used test, is an achievement test.
Adapt to Child's Needs
The most important goal of the CogAT test is to help teachers adapt instructional goals, methods and materials to the individual needs of the student.
Measures Students
CogAT is used to measure each student's cognitive development. This is how gifted children are selected, for example. Only about half of the students who score in the top 3 percent of the Iowa Tests also score in the top 3 percent of the CogAT, meaning that CogAT identifies children who may not be identified as gifted based on academic achievement, but are gifted nonetheless.
Expectations
CogAT is used to determine if students perform to their potential. If not, teachers can begin looking for reasons such as learning disabilities or poor hearing or vision.
Norms
The CogAT also measures students to see where they fall regarding age and grade norms.
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Writer Bio
Laura Agadoni has been writing professionally since 1983. Her feature stories on area businesses, human interest and health and fitness appear in her local newspaper. She has also written and edited for a grassroots outreach effort and has been published in "Clean Eating" magazine and in "Dimensions" magazine, a CUNA Mutual publication. Agadoni has a Bachelor of Arts in communications from California State University-Fullerton.