THE PROBLEM WITH GRADE AND AGE EQUIVALENTS - WIAT AS A CASE IN POINT

Problems associated with grade equivalents (GEs) and age equivalents ( AEs) have been noted in the past This study investigated the counterin tuitive observation that a student entering first grade can obtain a s tandard score of 99 on the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test (WIAT) and obtain a grade equivalency approximately one-half grade behind ac tual grade placement. The present study confined this derived-score-di screpancy phenomenon to the following WIAT subtests and regions: (a) B asic Reading-primary grades; (b) Mathematics Reasoning-primary grades; and (c) Oral Expression-intermediate and high school grades and ages. Recommendations are offered to practitioners in light of the findings .