Crazy WPPSI score

[Anonymous]

Overall, my daughter did well on the WPPSI -- not 99.9 percentiles, but very well.

But she scored truly average (10 scaled/50th percentile) on object assembly. This is so out of whack with her other subtests -- including her 16 scale/98th percentile for the block design, the other performance measure -- and the overall composite scores that I am troubled by what it might mean. The evaluator was pretty much of no help when I asked whether this signaled a potential learning problem. She asked if we normally do puzzles at home ... which we do ... and didn't have any other ideas.

I would appreciate any resources that might help me better understand this discrepancy -- and any other insights. If this means we're toast for GDS, so be it, but I'd like to understand what's going on a little better.

[Anonymous]

The difference between Object Assembly and Block Design is that on Block Design the child is copying a model (a drawing of a design or a block model) but on OA there is no model. On the easy items they are told what the puzzle will make, on the harder ones they aren't.

Sometimes a split like your daughter's means that for some reason the child functions better with a higher level of structure - that she couldn't figure out what to do without a model or framework. The need for structure could stem from anxiety, or executive dysfunction, or some other issue. And sometimes it means nothing at all - one outlying score doesn't signify much - you need other scores to confirm a pattern.

FWIW, Object Assembly doesn't correlate all that well with other subtests and they've dropped it entirely from the WISC, so a lower score shouldn't be the kiss of death!

[Anonymous]

I think the only way a WPPSI would totally "throw you overboard" is if you rated below the 50th percentile...These scores are used as a determining factor, but so many other factors come into play (most of them are totally out of your control). These scores are so over the page especially for children under the age of 5/6. Most reference material states this, and I am sure the admissions staff is well aware of it. I would be more concerned with the playdate and teacher recommendations.

I still don't understand why you would assume something is wrong or possibly abnormal with your child. She scored average on a test?? I am sure if the test administrator identified something that was REALLY abnormal, she would have stated that in the narrative. Slow down, breathe, and step away from all the pressure of the so-called 99.9th percentile children on this forum.

[Anonymous]

I remember when I was in high school my mom told me that in 2d grade I scored off the charts on all parts of an IQ test except the one involving shapes (I think we had a puzzle to fit together) where I was below-average to average. She thought it was hilarious and perfectly accurate (and it did not affect my academic success).

[Anonymous]

I would not be alarmed in the least. What was your expectation? From a big picture perspective, or 30, 000 foot view, it is impossible for every born child that initially tests to have perfect scores in all subtests (99.9 percentile). That said, those without, and there are many (just take a look at the Bell shaped curve or normal distribution curve) are not abnormal or with disease and pathology. On the basis of the scores you report nothing is wrong with your child. The fiftieth (50th) percentile is smack in the middle of all children and therefore an average score. Why would anyone suspect pathology? An average subtest score is not abnormal.

As the pschologist is hinting (wink, wink) you can always prepare (prep well in advance of testing) your child before hand with blocks and puzzles if you prefer a higher score.

[Anonymous]

Educational consultants, the Aristotle service, have great ideas for practicing many of the tasks called upon for performance on these tests if you have further questions or need additional resources. I would definetely go for it if you are obssessed over a meaningless number.

[Anonymous]

Normal WPSSI score however crazy parent.

[Anonymous]

I concur. The child may have been less familiar and practised with the skills called upon for the subtest with the average score.

One of life's immutable physiologic principles consistently shows that practise of unfamiliar tasks and skills will improve performance. Simply talk to any surgeon, pilot, actor, public speaker, writer, mathematician, painter or builder.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Overall, my daughter did well on the WPPSI -- not 99.9 percentiles, but very well.

But she scored truly average (10 scaled/50th percentile) on object assembly. This is so out of whack with her other subtests -- including her 16 scale/98th percentile for the block design, the other performance measure -- and the overall composite scores that I am troubled by what it might mean. The evaluator was pretty much of no help when I asked whether this signaled a potential learning problem. She asked if we normally do puzzles at home ... which we do ... and didn't have any other ideas.

I would appreciate any resources that might help me better understand this discrepancy -- and any other insights. If this means we're toast for GDS, so be it, but I'd like to understand what's going on a little better.

I agree with 16:22. OP, she scored in the 50th percentile, in ONE area, and you are "troubled" and think this "signaled a potential learning problem?" Get a grip. While this may mean that you have to come to grips with the facts that your daughter is merely average in one area (gasp! the horror!), I'm sure you'll live. On the other hand, if a GDS admissions officer (or one from any school, really) is reading this post and can use it to identify your daughter, you're definitely toast - not because of the score, but it's an easy way for them to avoid a nutbag parent.

[Anonymous]

If you want to consistently perform well on the PSAT, SAT or WPPSI (...or any test for that matter) be sure you take practise tests, tasks or skills...the 3 Ps (practise, practise, practise)... is the best advice.

[Anonymous]

FWIW, one of our children scored very well on the WPPSI and had a poor score in the same section. It had no bearing on acceptances at the schools we applied to, including "big 3".

[Anonymous]

If you want to consistently perform well on the PSAT, SAT or WPPSI (...or any test for that matter) be sure you take practise tests, tasks or skills...the 3 Ps (practise, practise, practise)... is the best advice.

This is an age old adage that has faired the test of father time.

Agree with this advice.

[Anonymous]

PP
Barf.

[Anonymous]

Turn quickly to your side. You'll avoid aspiration. Hypoxia will definitely have a negative effect on your WPPSI score.

[Anonymous]

My child had an almost identical score. Was admitted to our first choice school, so it's not the end for admissions. Not sure about academic implications, though - too soon to tell.