What is Brigance Testing? Brigance is a screening tool widely used by schools for students in Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten and First Grade. The test is not an IQ test nor is it a full scale educational assessment – it is a norm referenced test that compares each child’s results with the performance of other examinees. Brigance Testing covers a variety of school based curriculum topics through a series of 12 assessments, including language development, science and math proficiencies and gross motor skills.
Who administers the test?
The test is administered in a one-on-one setting and takes approximately 15 minutes. In many schools the test can be done by the reading specialist, the classroom teacher, or school psychologist.
How is the test scored?
The test is scored by the test administrator in 3 steps. First, the administrator scores each of the 12 assessment areas individually. They do this by multiplying the total correct answers for that section by a specific point value per question. Each section has questions weighed at a different amount based on the skill level required and age of testing. For example, a Kindergartener will only get ½ point for each uppercase letter named correctly but gets 3 points for each correct question related to number readiness. Second, after they have determined the child’s scores for each section they compile the results. The test is based on a total score of 100 points. Third, the total score is compared to a national average scale to indicate if the student is above, below, or of average ability level.
Why do schools use Brigance Testing?
Many schools use this screening tool to identify incoming students who may be at risk for learning difficulties and who might benefit from intervention. Likewise, the test has the capability to indicate a child who may be above average and thus provide the support necessary for a more enriching learning experience.
Do all schools use Brigance Testing?
No, they do not. The use of Brigance Testing is subject to the administrative decisions of each school and school district’s procedures when screening incoming Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and First Grade students.
By Danielle Meyer, Reading Specialist
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