Gifted Issues Discussion homepage Forums Identification, Testing & Assessment SAT/ACT, 13 yo, and accommodations

Hello all--

I homeschool my HG+/2E 13yo. Last year he took the ITBS a year ahead of level with the accommodation of extended time and got a composite score at the 98th percentile. (This is in stark contrast to the year before where he didn't receive accommodations and scored on level at the 63rd percentile.) The testing was done at the local public school and the accommodations were documented on his 504 plan.

We are required to test each year. Since it takes quite a bit of time and energy on my son's part, I like the scores to have some value. I don't think the ITBS (or whatever the high school equivalent is called) even a few years out of level is going to give any new information this year and I'm hoping to have him take either the ACT or the SAT instead.

He needs testing accommodations and I'm wondering if the powers that be grant them to "underage" students. Has anyone here had experience with this? Any insight at all would be much appreciated.

Thanks!

here is the accommodation policy for SAT test by college board.

http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/sat/reg/ssd.html

"Applying for Accommodations

* You must complete a Student Eligibility Form (available from your counselor). If you are requesting accommodations that you receive at your school, your school must also complete part of the form.
* If possible, submit the form in the spring before your first College Board test (PSAT/NMSQT, AP, or SAT) to ensure enough time to process your application.
* If you move to a new school after you have been approved for accommodations, your new school will need to confirm your continued eligibility."

I am not sure where you can get the Student Eligibility Form if your son is home schooled. You may want to call them.

My impression is that the ACT grants accommodations more readily than the SAT. Homeschoolers appear to be at a distinct disadvantage if they do not have a formal IEP for 2e issues.