Identifies possible learning disorders.

The Meeting Street School Screening Test is an individually administered test that identifies possible learning disorders in kindergartners and first graders (ages 5-1-Vi). The test is divided into three subtests with five tasks apiece. One focuses on motor skills and evaluates finger dexterity, imitation of hand gestures, and the ability to hop, skip, and move on command. A second subtest assesses visual skills and consists of copying geometric figures and letters, drawing on request, and tapping blocks in a sequence. The language portion of the test evaluates repetition of short phrases, sentences, and nonsense words; counting forward and backward; chronological sequencing; and describing an abstract picture. A behavior rating scale and book of norms are used in scoring the test.

For Further Study

Books

Cohen, Libby G., and Loraine J. Spenciner. Assessment of Young Children. New York: Longman, 1994.

Hart, Diane. Authentic Assessment: a Handbook for Educators. Menlo Park, CA: Addison-Wesley Pub. Co., 1994.

McCullough, Virginia. Testing and Your Child: What You Should Know About 150 of the Most Common Medical, Educational, and Psychological Tests. New York: Plume, 1992.

Wortham, Sue Clark. Tests and Measurement in Early Childhood Education. Columbus: Merrill Publishing Co., 1990.