Academic Tests for Gifted Elementary School Students

What Academic Tests Are There for Gifted Students?

How Can Tests Help My Gifted Child?

Children take a lot of academic tests, even in elementary school. In fact, preparation for elementary academic tests can be a great way for kids to learn the study and test-taking skills they will need in middle and high school. Some of the tests that you can expect your child to take are administered to determine if your child is gifted.

'Gifted' and 'talented' are broad, unspecific terms. Your child could potentially be gifted in many different ways. For this reason, academic tests for gifted children may differ greatly. For example, a test to determine your child's ability at math will differ greatly from a test determining your child's ability when it comes to music or visual art.

What Tests Are There to Determine If My Child's Gifted?

There are a number of tests that your child can take in order to determine if he or she is gifted and in what way. Although IQ tests are by no means the final word when it comes to intelligence, they can be useful when combined with other tests.

The Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) tracks a child's cognitive development by testing problem-solving skills. Education professionals may use the CogAT in addition to other tests to determine a child's eligibility. The CogAT one way your child may gain entry into Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) programs. Once in a GATE program, your gifted child will encounter a challenging curriculum that will help him or her develop.

How Can My Child Prepare for Elementary Academic Tests?

Since elementary students are young and haven't had a chance to develop strong study skills, you may want to sit with your child while he or she is studying. Show him or her how to make flashcards and study guides and then study from these aids together. For instance, your child can have fun by quizzing you.

Your child can also prepare by completing practice problems or answering sample questions. Again, you can study together. As your child explains problems to you, he or she will be gaining a deeper understanding of the material.

Encourage reading at home and keep your child's mind engaged in fun, educational activities. There are a number of resources at your disposal through your child's school, local libraries and learning centers. There are also many educational websites that might provide you with ideas.