To learn more about each student’s abilities and thinking processes, 833 students in grades 2 through 7 will be assessed using the Cognitive Ability Test Form 7 (CogAT7).

Why use the CogAT7?

• The CogAT7 has three subtests that measure verbal, quantitative and nonverbal abilities.
• District 833 has chosen to use the CogAT7 as it gives the added quantitative ability information, which is unavailable with the OLSAT8 or the NNAT2. In unique situations, the OLSAT8 or NNAT2 will still be utilized.

How will the CogAT7 be administered?

• Grades 2-7 will take the assessment online. Audio led proctoring is available for students in grades 2-7.
• The CogAT7 is administered in three sessions of approximately 60 minutes each.

How are the results of an ability assessment used?

• Results provide student ability information about students strengths.
• In many circumstances, the assessment provides identification of gifted learners in District 833.

When will the students be tested?

• Students in grades 2-3 ability assessments are administered in November- December
• Students in grades 4-5 and 6-7 ability assessments are administered in February

Who will be assessed?

• Grade 2                
  Students with a 75^th percentile or higher on one MAP test, either Reading or Math and/or receiving a teacher recommendation.

  Grades 3             
  Students scoring in the upper percentiles on a previous ability test, scoring in the 95%ile or above on two of either Reading or Math MAP tests and/or receiving a teacher recommendation.

  Grades 4-5             
  Students scoring in the 98-99%ile on historic MAP tests, either Reading or Math, scored in the upper percentiles on a previous ability test and/or receiving a teacher recommendation.  Student has not been assessed for at least two years.

  Grades 6-7          
  Students scoring in the 98-99%ile on three of the last four MAP tests, either Reading or Math, recommended by GE Coach and/or teacher team. Student has not been assessed for at least two years.

• Are there any forms that the parent needs to complete?

• For second grade students, no forms need to be completed.A Parent Opt-Out form is provided.
• For students in grades three through seven, the Parent Permission Form needs to be completed and returned prior to the student being assessed.
• Teachers will send the appropriate form/s home
  
  
  How should I prepare my child for the test?

• The CogAT7 is an ability test rather than an achievement test.It provides information on how the student processes information rather than what they have achieved in the classroom.
• As with any assessment, a good night sleep and a good breakfast are recommended to prepare for the test.
• Letting the student know that they will not “receive a grade” for the test, but that it is being administered to give teachers more information on how they learn, so their teachers can understand the best way to teach them.