By Deborah Kline, MEd, EdS
Measurements are celebrations of learning!
~Deborah Kline, EdS
One of the biggest reasons we pulled our kids to homeschool because we did not want our kids’ education to be focused solely on taking tests; however, we still value evaluations as a celebration of progress and a tool for success!
In Florida homeschooling, we have several options for evaluating our children annually, but those options are often biased and/or offer limited interpretation as to how our children learn. I also know all too well from testing my own children, they perform differently with others than they do with me (i.e. they tend to do better with others). That’s why testing with a specialist is incredibly beneficial!
Norm-referenced testing with a specialist ensures a reliable, comprehensive measurement of where your child is at academically… and it comes with beneficial feedback about how your child learns!
Ready to schedule your child’s norm-referenced evaluation? Click here. Need more info, keep reading =)
What is a norm-referenced evaluation?
If you’re new to education, the words “norm-referenced” can be a bit daunting. It’s basically our big educational term for assessments that show how a child compares academically to peers his/her age across the country. Some norm-referenced tests – like the one I offer – are also a screening tool for a variety of learning differences such as dyslexia, processing disorders, working memory challenges, executive function delays, and more!
Why should I get my child evaluated periodically?
Students need to be tested to see how they are progressing in comparison to other children their age. It helps us identify the child’s strengths, gaps, and delays as well as identify ways to empower gifts and overcome challenges!
As the test is given, additional screening subtests may also be given to further explore the child’s likelihood of having a learning disability.
Overall, testing an important piece of information in the academic achievement process.
What is the test like?
When you think of testing, you likely think of the stress-filled, timed, computer based, multiple-choice state standardized tests taken in schools. Such tests are not comprehensive, only measuring how well a child performs on that particular type of test. The KTEA-3 (Kaufman) norm-referenced test is quite different!!!
- The test is in person, one-on-one, and mostly verbal responses to questions asked. Meaning, the test feels more like a conversation than a test.
- Our goal is to keep it low stress so we have an accurate picture of the student’s abilities. Most students comment after testing: “It was fun!” My own daughter comments after testing, “It was relaxing.”
- While studying and preparing is beneficial, it is not needed!
- Students are allowed to take their time and take breaks as needed! As an ESE specialist, I easily recognize brain fatigue, confusion, and incorporate appropriate brain breaks to allow students to get fresh oxygen to help students do their best! And, if needed, we can schedule the test over multiple days.
- Basic composite tests include math concepts, math computation, reading comprehension, written expression, spelling, vocabulary, and word recognition.
- The written expression includes editing and composition skills ending with an engaging, open writing activity (i.e. does not have to be a 5 paragraph essay – although students can organize their writing that way if they so choose).
- Optional subtests are available to screen for dyslexia and other learning processing disorders.
- The timed fluency subtests are OPTIONAL! These tests are 1 or 2 minute tests that can be included if the parent chooses. Math fluency measures how quickly your child computes math facts. Reading fluency measure how fast your child reads. We often use these tests to prove learning disabilities in the older grades when the student has learned compensational tools.
When should we test?
Anytime! Many families have their children tested at the beginning of the year to get a baseline for where they are at and gives them guidance for the year ahead. Some test at the end of the school year or summer when evaluations are typically due. I personally find January to March ideal because, based on my 20+ years of experience, students tend to be most focused during these months. However, most parents chose to do testing in the summer.
Can we test if we are not homeschoolers?
Absolutely! Many people have their kids tested to show the need for accommodations and recommendations for instruction. In our modern education system, data is empowering.
The more data you have about how your child learns, the more power you have in advocating their needs in 504, IEP, and parent-teacher meetings.
You can also use the test as a first step towards a learning disability diagnosis. If you are not ready to commit to a full psycho-educational evaluation, the academic portion will show if there is a potential diagnosis. Working with our team of Psychologists and Specialists at The Center for Health Learning and Achievement, the KTEA-3 is often the first piece of the puzzle of your child’s learning success!
For Dual-Enrollment and/or College Bound Kids…
Norm-referenced testing is a great, no-risk, first step in knowing if your child is ready for college level coursework. The test shows whether your child has the math and writing skills for passing the PERT (the test required for most dual enrollment programs in the state of Florida) and gives insight for preparing for the process.
Testing helps students practice the skills of test-taking. Although the KTEA-3 is not designed like most college-entrance exams, it helps students think strategically and gives us an opportunity to pinpoint specific test-taking skills to work on to before taking the real tests. It is a wonderful learning tool.
I’m excited to be a part of your child’s learning journey!
~Mrs. Deborah Kline, MEd, EdS
If you would like to schedule a Free 15 minute call to discuss if the norm-referenced test is right for your child, click here or email DeborahKlineConsulting@gmail.com for more info!
Deborah Kline, EdS 