Homeschoolers in Minnesota need to test their kids each year with a nationally normed achievement test, once they are 7 years old by October 1st.
There are a variety of testing instruments to choose from, so how do you pick? Keep in mind your chid’s learning style, needs and temperament as you consider your options. Here are some considerations:
1. Timed versus Untimed
2. Bracketed, testing content at your child’s grade, versus Non-bracketed, allowing child to answer more and more difficult content until a threshold is met - giving true Grade Equivalency in each area.
3. Cost
4. How the test is administered: Written & administered at home, or with a proctor, or at a coop setting; testing online on your own; testing one-on-one supported by a test administrator either in person or online.
5. Timing of administration: Specific time of year to order and administer as set out by the seller of the test versus any month of the year, September – August, as you determine when it would be best to have the testing done.
6. Length of the test: Several hours in one sitting or over several days versus 60-90 minutes
7. How soon are the testing results made available: Months or weeks afterward versus within a couple of days.
I have a list of some of the test options/providers under Resources. I’m happy to answer questions about your decision on what test to use and any questions about the WJ-III or Peabody, untimed, non-bracketed, individually administered tests that I offer.