In PA you have to have standardized test scores for 3rd, 5th and 8th grades. My evaluator/friend recommended which one my daughter should take this year, and she will administer it. It's call the WRAT (wide range achievement test). She showed me the test and I think it's very low stress. I actually think I WILL do this one each year when we don't have to test so that she can keep in practice for a testing sitation. She recommended CAT for 5th or 8th...but only once and the WRAT is acceptable completely. PA has 8 tests you can take. They range from the 3 day killers to the 25 minute no biggies.
Here in VA, we are req'd to test annually (or jump thru a different hoop...testing is easier). Last year, my oldest took the Terra Nova in KY before we moved and I got approved to give my 7 yr old the Iowa test (thur BJU testing, need a college degree). This year, I think we're going to use the CAT-E thru Seton testing. It's just math and lang arts (the minimum req'd by VA law). It's about $30 and can be done by the parent and the results are typically back in 2-3 weeks (handscored). I currently plan to alternate between the CAT-E and the ITBS. We are using some different science and history than what might be typical of kids the same age (currently Zoology) so I know my kids would not do well on a standardized test with topics they've never seen....why crush their spirits by testing them on things I know we haven't covered and why cram it in for a test subject that isn't req'd.... I might change my mind but this is the current plan. Rhonda C.
I am testing Vicki this year. SC doesn't require you to test but I want to know what she does know. I just order the from Seton Testing Service. I think this will be interesting.
Only qualification for Iowa is a bachelor's degree. I'm an approved adminstrator for ITBS thru BJU Testing. Iowa does allow you to test your own children as long as you meet the qualifications of any other approved administrator. I tested my 7 yr old last spring with the ITBS at our home with my approved adminstrator status. Rhonda C.
