An IQ test is an example of which type of assessment?

• A. Norm-referenced test
• B. Criterion-referenced test
• C. Diagnostic assessment
• D. Curriculum-based assessment

Answer: (A)

An IQ test is designed to compare an individual’s performance to a normative sample, making it a norm-referenced assessment. This means scores are interpreted relative to how others in the same age group perform, typically using standard scores or percentiles. The standardized administration and scoring routines allow this kind of population comparison, rather than measuring whether someone has mastered specific content or skills.

In contrast, criterion-referenced tests measure whether a person has met predefined criteria or standards, not how they stack up against peers. Diagnostic assessments aim to identify specific areas of strength and weakness, and curriculum-based assessments evaluate performance on tasks tied to what is taught in class. Because an IQ test focuses on relative standing within a reference group, it best fits the norm-referenced approach.