The Arlin Test of Formal Reasoning (ATFR) has been presented as an instrument useful in the identification of students for placement in accelerated mathematics programs. Using a sample of eighth graders, 32 regular and 18 accelerated mathematics students, the ATFR was examined along with typical school standardized test information (Cognitive abilities Test and Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills). Beyond available school test information, the ATFR was not found to make a substantial contribution to the identification of accelerated mathematics students, nor, within their class placements, was it significantly associated with student academic performance (final grades).
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
Arlin, P. K. (1982). A multitrait-multimethod validity study of a test of formal reasoning. Educational and Psychological Measurement, 42, 1077-1088.
2.
Arlin, P. K. (1984), Arlin Test of Formal Reasoning: Test manual. East Auroa, NY: Slosson Educational.
3.
Bloland, R. M. and Michael, W. (1984). A comparison of the relative validity of a measure of Piagetian cognitive development and a set of conventional prognostic measures in the prediction of the future success of ninth- and tenth-grade students in algebra. Educational and Psychological Measurement, 44, 925-943.
4.
CTB/McGraw Hill (1982). Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills. Monterey, CA: Author.
5.
Gridley, D. E. (1990). Best practices in working with gifted children. In A. Thomas and J. Grimmes (Eds.), Best practices in school psychology (2nd ed.) (pp. 811-821). Washington, DC: National Association of School Psychologists.
6.
Inhelder, B. and Piaget, J. (1958). The growth of logical thinking from childhood to adolescence. New York: Basic.
7.
Riverside Publishing Company (1985). Cognitive Abilities Test. Chicago, IL: Author.
8.
Reis, S. M. (1989). Reflections on policy affecting the education of gifted and talented students: Past and future perspectives. American Psychologist, 44, 399-408.
9.
Santimine, T. E. (1985). Arlin Test of Formal Reasoning (No. 80). In J. V. Mitchell (Ed.), The ninth mental measurement yearbook, (pp. 81-83). Lincoln, NE: University of Nebraska Press.
10.
Sternberg, R. J. and Davidson, J. E. (1985). Cognitive development in gifted and talented. In F. D. Horowitz and M. O'Brien (Eds.) The gifted and talented: Developmental perspectives (pp. 37-74). Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
11.
Strahan, D. B. and O'Sullivan, R. G. (1988). Achievement test scores in the middle grades: The influence of cognitive reasoning. Journal of Early Adolescence, 8, 53-61.
