Gifted Issues Discussion homepage Forums Identification, Testing & Assessment How 2 interpret DS test scores?

While I agree with Dottie that scores can go down, we are one of the group who retested (we actually waited to have DS take the ACT) and found a significant leap in scores. We had always doubted the first number we were given and so getting that new number that "fit" him better was a relief. There are others on this board who have had the same experience. I would give it some time (we waited almost 2 years) and if the number still doesn't seem right, then I would suggest a retest.

This test was specifically to look for learning disabilities and to assess where he needs to be academically. He tested gifted so that is sufficient for schools etc to bump him up and work with us on acceleration. I just want a true reflection so I know if I can apply for the DYS or not. I guess I can always put together a portfolio and try but it does not look too promising. That is why I was wondering if anyone noticed a significant difference that might qualify us later with test scores alone. I guess I need to find out what the scale scores were???

We did apply with close but not quite scores (VCI 144) and were not accepted. After he took the ACT which had scores well over their cut-off, he was accepted.

I am getting the impression that with a portfolio, they still ultimately want some test evidence that meets their criteria even if it is not one of the tests on their list.

Others with more experience, please correct me if I'm wrong!

If you think the scores are off and you can afford to retest, you might as well. I'm not a fan of score-chasing, but I also think that one test on one day with "flaky" tests at the tails can make for scores that aren't telling the whole truth.

Count us in the "retest and score higher" group. DS7 (then 6) had a bad test day for several reasons (lack of 2-3 hours of sleep because of an overstimulating hotel stay, stomach flu with fever that showed up about a day after testing, bad test fit with the SB-V, etc.). As a result, our tester--one of the nation's top experts on GT kids--felt the scores were lower than DS7 was capable of. He suggested we wait a few months and retest locally with the WISC instead. We followed this advice and he scored in the DYS range on the WISC.

A test is just one score (or set of them) on one day. If the number doesn't match what you see, then I think that trying again makes sense. But unless you have the scores, I don't think I'd recommend applying to DYS yet. They are pretty strict about the score cutoff. I wouldn't waste the time until/unless you have the numbers.

Hi, and welcome! Those are solidly GT scores, congrats!

One thing to remember about a DYS application -- even if you do portfolio, they'll want to see any scores that you do have, so you'd have to send them in. I'd recommend retesting, if you think those scores are way off, before sending in a portfolio unless you've got some amazing portfolio material (and you might!). I'd also call your tester and ask for percentile rankings on all the scores you were given, for your own reference if nothing else.

Good luck!

What do consider amazing portfolio material? Would I work off strengths or disprove the "questionable" scores to support the hypothesis of a bad test day? Thanks

Hmmm...I think you might be better served by asking this sort of question of the Davidson staff. They're very helpful.

I do have one suggestion (good for anyone thinking of a portfolio): videos! Be very selective about what you choose. Hours of cute kid vids won't cut it. But I have a theory that if you see a DYS kid in action, you know it. It tells you more than any worksheet or parent-told story can demonstrate. If I were putting together a portfolio, a handful of very short videos taking up just a few minutes of the reviewers' time (5-10 minutes, TOPS!) would be the spine of my presentation.

And remember, you're trying to distinguish between an MG or even HG child and an HG+/PG child, not merely that he's GT. Big difference! You need to show that your child is 3+ grades above age-level (and more would be preferable, especially if you are trying to get in without scores).

I don't mean to sound negative, but I really do think the usual DYS response to lower scores--even with a good portfolio--is a flat "no." They get enough applicants who have the scores that they don't have to accept lower scores. It's tough, since we all know how finicky the testing is, especially at the tails. But it's all they've got, so it's what they use.

My best advice is to make arrangements to retest and start collecting evidence for a future portfolio.

Thanks for the advice and all the help.