The truth is, IQ tests do not accurately measure intelligence, they don't discriminate between high achievers and low achievers, and they aren't perfect predictors of student responses to intervention. That's why it's important to recognize the limitations of IQ tests.
IQ tests aren't perfect
Although an IQ test's results can be fairly accurate, there are a number of confounding factors that can affect an individual's score. These variables can include the child's family situation, past performance in school, and other contextual factors. Despite these limitations, an IQ test can be an effective tool for identifying a child's potential.
They don't discriminate between learning disabilities and low achievers
Critics of IQ tests have questioned whether the tests actually measure potential or mental abilities. They argue that the tests measure the products of intelligence, and that wrong answers indicate lower IQ than correct answers.
They aren't a perfect predictor of response to intervention
The IQ test isn't a perfect predictor of the response of a child to intervention. This is because the questions on the IQ test are largely about skills that are important in school and business. There is a large variation in these skills and questions on IQ tests.
They don't capture average intellectual abilities
IQ tests are not an accurate measure of a person's average intellectual abilities. They do not measure emotional sensitivity, social intelligence, or real-world rationality, and often do not measure skills that are necessary to succeed in business. Moreover, IQ tests often have high error margins, and a person's score may vary widely depending on the testing conditions and the test administrator's rapport with the subject.
They do not expose children to testing materials
The purpose of an IQ test is to test a child's ability to solve unfamiliar problems. Hence, exposing a child to testing materials to get high scores on IQ test questions and expecting accuracy invalidates the test. Parents who expose their child to these materials should inform the testing center immediately, and the child should not be allowed to take the test again for a year. Parents should also refrain from giving any rewards for a child's high score on an IQ test. Instead, they should praise their child's effort instead.
They aren't valid for children younger than 6 years
There are several factors that make an IQ test invalid for children younger than six. For one, children at this age may be hungry or sleepy, or they may have wet diapers. They may also be resistant to strangers and may not respond when asked. Moreover, they may prefer to play with the test materials rather than answer questions. Therefore, parents of young children may want to consider a longer testing session, or ask questions designed for older children.
I should try one of these tests.