List of 9 frequently asked questions.

• What does the IQ test measure?

  The test is a measure of a child's intelligence quotient (IQ). The score is derived from the results of several subtests designed to measure verbal reasoning and conceptualization skills, visual spatial skills, problem solving skills, working memory, and processing speed. The scores are compiled by the tester and compared to a norm based on the student's age. Dr. David Wechsler, the clinical psychologist who developed the assessments, defined the tests as measuring how well children can "adapt and constructively solve problems in the environment.”

• Why do you require an IQ test? Is there a minimum score to be able to apply?

  In order for Mirman to fulfill its mission of educating highly gifted children, we turn to the IQ test as a measure for this population. We understand that an IQ test cannot possibly capture the full picture of any one child, and that there have been cultural biases unearthed in the examination of these tests. We believe that the tests we accept have corrected for these issues as much as possible.

  
  Through our experience working with highly gifted students, we have found that students with a Full Scale Wechsler IQ score of 138 and above are more likely to be successful in the Mirman School program. For this reason, this is considered our target score in the Mirman application process.

• Which tests do you accept at Mirman?

  We accept the WPPSI-IV (Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence) and the WISC-V (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children). Research has shown that the Wechsler test is one of the most well-designed tests to measure intelligence. Additionally, Wechsler offers up-to-date tests; the WISC-V was published in 2014, and the WPPSI-IV was published in 2012. These tests have been updated to consider broad cultural factors and allow for intelligence to be defined through several subtests.

  
  Children between the ages of 4 years and 7 years 7 months old can take the WPPSI-IV. Testing time typically runs 45-60 minutes.

  
  Children ages 6 years and older can take the WISC-V. Testing time typically runs 60-90 minutes.

• What can my child expect during the test, and can I be in the room during the test?

  The test administration will take about an hour and a half. Your child will be asked to participate in a series of activities that assess their cognitive functioning. The test consists of several activities, all of which can be administered without any reading or writing. Supplemental tasks can be built into the test in order to cancel out any tests which may be interrupted or voided by other causes. Parents and other family members cannot be in the room during the test.

• My child is a native speaker of another language. Is the test available in other languages?

  For admission to Mirman, we require that the IQ test be administered in English. If your child’s first language is not English, it is important for the psychologist to have this information prior to testing. There is no difference in the administration, content, or scoring of the test, but it does help the psychologist and our school interpret the test results.

  
  Please email Director of Admission and Enrollment Management Brad Barry at bbarry@mirman.org if you have any questions.

• What is the cost of the IQ test? Do you offer assistance with the cost?

  Mirman's testers offer a flat rate for conducting the IQ assessment and sending us a basic report of the results. If you are interested, many also offer services such as educational advising or more comprehensive assessment at an additional cost.

  
  Mirman is pleased to offer assistance with the cost of testing for families who qualify based on demonstrated financial need. To apply for assistance with the cost of the IQ test, you will need to submit two documents. First, please fill out the testing assistance form and email it to admission@mirman.org. Then, have one of your child’s teachers fill out the Teacher Rating Scale and email or mail it to us. Please note that these forms should be submitted prior to scheduling your IQ evaluation.

  
  If you have any questions, please email Director of Admission and Enrollment Management Brad Barry, at bbarry@mirman.org or call (310) 476-2868 ext. 207.

• When should I test my Kindergarten applicant?

  The testing we require to begin the admission process for Kindergarten is the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI-IV) which is designed to assess students from two-and-a-half years old all the way to seven. We recommend having the testing done in the late summer or fall when the student is 4 to give you plenty of time for the application process.

• Can I have my child tested more than once?

  Psychologists require that a child tested using the WPPSI or WISC test wait one year to be reassessed. Due to the test practice effect, taking the test twice within a year invalidates the results of the second test.

• How can I prepare my child for the IQ test?

  Your child does not need to prepare for the IQ test other than getting a good night’s rest and eating a healthy breakfast the morning of their appointment. The test measures a child’s natural responses to a typical spectrum of questions and skills which are normed for his or her age, so practice drills will not be helpful. Instead of putting pressure on the importance of the results, encourage your child to enjoy doing some different activities like working with blocks and looking at pictures with the psychologist. You can tell them that they will perform tasks that are similar to activities they do in school.