Standard Scores and Norms

terms and definition

Raw Score

Actual number of correct responses

Standard scores

converted raw scores

Z-Score

shows how many SDs above or below the mean.

T-Score

No negative values

Stanines

9-point Scale. Score grouped into 9 broad categories.

Percentile Ranks

Shows percentage of scores below the score

IQ Scores

used in intelligence testing

Normalization

Converting raw scores into a common scale based on a normal distribution.

Test Norms

Reference for interpreting scores. Based on the performance of a defined group. Used to compare individual scores to the population.

Norming Sample

Groups used to establish test norms. Provides baseline for score comparison. Must reflect the population the test is intended for.

Representative Sample

Mirrors key characteristics of the target population.

Incidental Sample

Also called Convenience Sample. Selected based on availability.

Fixed Reference Group

A stable group used to anchor test scores. Basis for comparisons over years. Test norms are not update regularly.

Race Norming

Adjusting test scores based on the test taker’s racial or ethnic group.

Universal Norms

Everyone’s score is interpreted against the same normative group.

Test bias review

Ensure questions don’t favor one group

Universal Design for testing

Accessible to all test-takers

Culture-fair tests

Use content free of cultural or language barriers.

Multiple norm groups

Use norms by region, SES–not race.

Cut score

A predetermined minimum score. Used to pass, qualify, or categorise performance.

Mastery Cut Score

Indicate sufficient knowledge

Selection Cut Score

Used to admit or hire only the best

Screening Cut Scores

Used to flag potential concerns

Multiple Cut Scores

Defines more than two categories

Nedelsky Method

Used for multiple-choice test. Experts eliminate clearly wrong choices. Probability of guessing remaining.

Angoff-Based Cut Score

Based on expert judgment. Experts estimate what a minimally competent person would score on each item.

Borderline Group Cut Scores

Collect scores from the students who are “just passing”