CoGAT IOWA Testing
Cognitive Ability Test (COGAT)/ IOWA Tests of Basic Skills (ITBS):
The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE), in accordance with State Board of Education Regulation 43-220, requires the administration, scoring, and reporting of a norm-referenced test system. The tests include aptitude (verbal, quantitative, and nonverbal), achievement in reading comprehension, and achievement in mathematics concepts and problem solving. The purpose of the assessments is to help identify potential students for academically gifted and talented programs.
The norm-referenced tests (aptitude and achievement) for gifted and talented (Seagul) screening are administered in the fall of each year to students in grade 2. Based on the results from the norm-referenced tests, a secondary screening using a performance assessment may be required for possible candidates.
Learn more about Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) and Iowa Assessments (IA) Test
Letter to Families on Testing
September 19, 2024
Dear Parent or Guardian:
All JES second grade students will be participating in state-mandated aptitude and achievement
testing beginning October 16th.. The test is not timed. These tests measure verbal, nonverbal
and quantitative readiness as well as reading and math skills.
The purpose of these tests is to identify students who may need to be served through the district’s
gifted and talented program (SEAGUL). Aptitude (CogAT) and achievement (ITBS) tests are
two of the three dimensions used for identification as gifted and talented; our district uses
multiple criteria following state-mandated guidelines for identification. Scores from these tests
also provide classroom teachers with tools for differentiating instruction to meet students’
individual learning needs.
You can support your child by encouraging her or him to do her/his best, but it is important to
avoid placing undue pressure on your child to perform. Getting a good night’s rest, eating a good
breakfast, and arriving to school on time each day will help your child to do his/her personal
best. We respectfully request that you make every effort to ensure that your child is present for
testing and avoid scheduling appointments that would remove your child from school during
testing. Thank you! If you have questions or concerns, please contact me by email at
harriet.boykin@kcsdschools.net or by phone at 803-425-8965.
Below you will find the test dates for students.
Wednesday, October 16th CogAT Verbal
Thursday, October 17th CogAT Quantitative
Friday, October 18th CogAT Nonverbal
Monday, October 21st Iowa Reading
Tuesday, October 22nd Iowa Mathematics
Sincerely,
Harriet Boykin-Garity, Assistant Principal