Cognitive Skills Subtests

Based on geometric shapes and figures, the Quantitative Skills subtest assesses a student’s ability to complete sequences, solve number sentences, compare values, and analyze pictures. It predicts success in school activities requiring abstract reasoning.

The Verbal Skills subtest assesses a student’s verbal reasoning based on his or her understanding of words. It predicts success in school activities requiring these skills.

When they are both taken, the Quantitative and Verbal Skills subtests yield a cognitive skills quotient (CSQ).

Basic Skills Subtests

The Reading subtest assesses a student’s ability to evaluate vocabulary and reading comprehension. It emphasizes sentence and paragraph comprehension, the ability to find the main idea and draw conclusions, as well as inferential and critical comprehension.

A student’s grammar, and composition skills are assessed by the Language Arts subtest. This subtest also evaluates listening skills at the kindergarten level, as well as at grades one and two.

The Mathematics subtest assesses a student’s computation skills, concepts, and the ability to apply mathematical reasoning to quantitative problems.

Science, Social Studies, and Reference Skills Subtests

A student’s understanding of scientific concepts, his or her critical thinking skills, and his or her ability to draw appropriate conclusions are assessed by the Science subtest.

The Social Studies subtest assesses a student’s knowledge and application of the social sciences including geography, history, political science, economics, sociology, and anthropology.

The Reference Skills subtest assesses a student’s ability to organize and follow directions, as well as to use reference sources and pictorial and graphic materials.

School Interests Section

The School Interests section, beginning at grade two, asks students to rate eight school subjects from “LIKE” to “DISLIKE.” The subjects include: music, art, mathematics, science, social studies, English, foreign language, and vocational studies.

Future Plans Section

In the Career Interests section, beginning at grade four, students indicate their first and second career preferences by choosing from a list of eighteen professions that require different amounts of education or training. Students mark their educational goals in the School Plans section.