Which assessment compares a student's performance to peers of the same age?

Which assessment compares a student's performance to peers of the same age?

• A. Norm-Referenced test
• B. Criterion Referenced Tests
• C. Curriculum based measurement
• D. Dyslexia

Answer: (A)

Comparing a student’s performance to peers of the same age is the hallmark of norm-referenced assessments. These tests are given to a representative group to establish norms, and an individual’s score is interpreted relative to that group—often shown as percentile ranks or standard scores. This tells you where the student stands compared with typical performance for children of the same age or grade. In contrast, criterion-referenced tests measure whether the student has mastered specific skills or content against fixed criteria, regardless of how others perform. Curriculum-based measurement tracks progress within the student’s current curriculum over time, focusing on growth rather than relative standing. Dyslexia is a reading difference, not a type of assessment. Therefore, the assessment that compares to peers of the same age is norm-referenced testing.

Comparing a student’s performance to peers of the same age is the hallmark of norm-referenced assessments. These tests are given to a representative group to establish norms, and an individual’s score is interpreted relative to that group—often shown as percentile ranks or standard scores. This tells you where the student stands compared with typical performance for children of the same age or grade. In contrast, criterion-referenced tests measure whether the student has mastered specific skills or content against fixed criteria, regardless of how others perform. Curriculum-based measurement tracks progress within the student’s current curriculum over time, focusing on growth rather than relative standing. Dyslexia is a reading difference, not a type of assessment. Therefore, the assessment that compares to peers of the same age is norm-referenced testing.