What explanation could be given for differences in a pupils scores on an IQ test and CAT?
The CAT is a group administered test, while typical IQ test batteries are individually administered. This can affect the performance of some pupils, for example those with attention problems may lose focus during a group test but remain ‘on-task’ with one-to-one testing. The individually administered verbal tests involve the examiner reading the material to the pupil, while the CAT verbal tests require the pupil to read the materials, so this may be another factor. Additionally, IQ tests incorporate a wider range of cognitive tasks, so overall performance may be affected by specific abilities not assessed in CAT. For both CAT and IQ tests, scores can sometimes vary because of extrinsic factors such as tiredness, distraction, lack of motivation, incorrect administration etc. Where there are score differences between two tests you need to know something about the individual who is the focus of the assessment. One-to-one work with, or observation of a student over the course of a school d
