Brain Training Assessment

For the Brain Training Assessment, we use the WRAT5 that measures progress in reading, spelling, and math. This can be used as a Non-Test Assessment for homeschoolers. With the BTA, we have the parents complete forms. Then the Learning Specialist designs an Individualized Neurodevelopmental Plan (list of activities to stimulate the brain to encourage development) to complete at home with our support.

Non-Test Assessment (qualifies for WA State homeschoolers and others)

After many years, we are transitioning from the PIAT-R (Peabody Individual Achievement Test – Revised) to a newer assessment tool. For a while, families who have been using this will still be able to use this tool, as long as the students have not achieved so high that the scores stop being helpful.

PIAT-R (Peabody Individual Achievement Test – Revised) Given orally – General Information, Reading Recognition, Reading Comprehension, Math, and Spelling.

• Optional – evaluation of a one-page writing sample – corrected with criteria that you receive along with an instructional lesson for one area of concern.
• Neurodevelopmental Screening (auditory and visual processing; dominance).
• Brief consultation with parents.
• NTA Report.
• Fulfills requirement for annual homeschool assessment in Washington State.

For new families and for those ready to move to this tool, we highly recommend our new tool is the Wide Range Achievement Test – 5 (2017).

One difference with this new tool is that there is no General Information subtest. We can still use the PIAT-R General Information, or a family may choose to have the older student write a paragraph about each of the content areas (Science, History, Bible, Health, etc.) what he/she has learned about the content areas and/or special interests. In some cases, a younger child can dictate to the parent. Our test administrator will then give some suggestions regarding the content of the paragraphs and the writing skills.

Subtests: Word Reading, Sentence Comprehension, Math, and Spelling (none are multiple choice).

Both are given orally and one-on-one via Zoom and include a neurodevelopmental screening. In both cases, parents may ask questions following the assessment and scores are grade equivalents.

Structure of Intellect Assessment

Dr. J.P. Guilford designed an assessment that decreased the attrition rate of dropouts of those training to be pilots during WWII. Drs. Mary and Robert Meeker further developed this model of assessing and training different learning abilities.