Iowa Tests of Basic Skills Average Scores

Archdiocese of Denver – Mid-year, 2009

Archdiocese of Denver Catholic Schools students in grades 2 – 8 take the Iowa Tests of
Basic Skills (ITBS) annually mid-year. The following is an analysis of the results for the 2008-
2009 school year.
The ITBS is a norm referenced test. As such, the scores register what students know.
Students bring to school knowledge related to native ability, family education level, socioeconomic status, the language or languages spoken in the home, and life experiences which is reflected in theses scores. Schools focus and organize this knowledge and add to it. The test does not measure the effectiveness of student learning compared to specific objectives as in assessments such as criterion referenced tests. The best use of ITBS scores is to compare the average scores of groups of students to the average scores of the norming group and to the identified grade level. The comparisons are most effective when used with smaller groups and with individuals, and then only when used in light of teacher observations and other student work.

Within the appropriate context, it is convenient and appropriate to use these scores as a
broad report of student achievement.

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