CAT4 Scores

To fully grasp the significance of CAT4 Test results, it's essential to understand the various score types provided in the assessment report. Let's explore each type of CAT4 score and its significance. 

Raw Score 

• The Raw Score is simply the number of questions answered correctly by the student 

Normative Scores 

Based on the Raw Score, three types of Normative Scores are calculated: 

This is the most important score used by schools

• It has a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15
• Scores range from 69 to 141
• A score of 100 represents average performance for a student's age group
• Scores of 112 and above are considered above average
• Scores of 88 and below are considered below average

• Ranges from 1 (lowest) to 9 (highest)
• Provides a quick overview of performance

• Ranges from 1 (lowest) to 99 (highest)
• Indicates how a student's performance compares to the national cohort

Selective School Admissions: Many grammar and selective schools use CAT4 scores in their admissions process

Gifted and Talented Programs: High SAS scores across all four batteries (Verbal, Quantitative, Non-verbal, and Spatial Reasoning) may indicate suitability for gifted programs

Academic Support: Identifies students who may need additional support or challenge in specific areas

Predicting Future Performance: Used to set predicted grades for future exams like GCSEs

Student Streaming: Helps in placing students in appropriate ability groups

Given the importance of these applications, many students find it beneficial to prepare thoroughly for the CAT4. Our comprehensive CAT4 test prep materials can help build confidence and familiarity with the test format.

International Schools

• Many British international schools rely on CAT4 scores for student placement and admissions decisions
• High CAT4 scores, especially when combined with strong academic performance, can significantly improve a student's chances of acceptance

Private Schools

• CAT4 is frequently used to assess candidates' academic ability as part of entrance exams
• Schools typically look for standardized scores of at least 115 for Year 7 candidates, with some schools setting even higher thresholds

KS2 Indicators

• Schools use CAT4 results to set predicted grades and targets for national tests and exams
• The scores help teachers evaluate students' academic abilities and potential, allowing for more targeted support or challenge
• To help your child prepare for these important assessments, consider purchasing a CAT4 - Level C prep pack

GCSE Indicators

• Schools use CAT4 indicators to calculate value-added and set targets for individual students
• The scores help in setting predicted grades for GCSEs, allowing for realistic goal-setting and appropriate academic support
• To help your child prepare for these important assessments, consider purchasing a CAT4 - Level E prep pack

Additional Considerations 

• Regular Assessment: Some schools administer CAT4 at key points (e.g., Year 7, Year 10, and Year 12) to reassess profiles and adjust future attainment indicators 

• Identifying Potential: CAT4 helps identify students who may have high potential but are not yet showing exceptional academic performance, allowing for early intervention and support 

• Comprehensive Evaluation: Schools often consider CAT4 scores alongside other factors like classroom performance and individual circumstances for a holistic understanding of a student's potential 

CAT4 scores are commonly used to identify gifted students in several ways:

Score Thresholds

• Students with a CAT4 score of 130 or above in one or more areas are typically identified as gifted
• Scores of 120-129 in one or more areas may indicate a student is highly able

Multiple Criteria

• High CAT4 scores combined with above-average academic performance strongly indicate giftedness
• Very high Standard Age Scores (SAS) across all four batteries suggest a student may be suitable for gifted programs

Specific Strengths

• CAT4 helps identify students who excel in particular areas
• The test can reveal gifted students who may have been overlooked due to learning disabilities or other factors

Differentiation Within Gifted Groups

• CAT4 allows schools to differentiate among gifted students
• This information enables schools to provide appropriate levels of challenge and support for each gifted student

Early Identification

• CAT4 can identify giftedness early
• Early identification allows for timely intervention and support to nurture gifted students' abilities

Equity in Identification

• CAT4 can help ensure fair identification of giftedness
• This helps ensure all students have equal access to gifted education programs, regardless of background

It's important to consider factors that might affect a student's performance:

Analyze the Score Breakdown

• Check how many questions were attempted to rule out random guessing
• Examine scores across all four batteries to identify specific areas of weakness

Consider Potential Factors

• Test anxiety or unfamiliarity with the format may have impacted performance
• Language barriers for EAL students could affect verbal reasoning scores
• Learning disabilities or special educational needs may need to be explored

Implement Targeted Interventions

• Provide intensive support in small classes for the lowest-scoring students
• Offer one-on-one support for students with very low verbal reasoning scores
• Create weekly support groups to reinforce weaker areas like math or reading

Reassess and Monitor Progress

• Consider re-testing after six months for more accurate results
• Use additional assessments to validate cognitive strengths and weaknesses

Develop Personalized Learning Plans

• Use CAT4 results to tailor educational approaches to individual student needs
• Implement strategies from the "Strategies for Learning" document for students with specific verbal/spatial profiles

Collaborate with Stakeholders

• Share results with key department leads to explore curriculum strengths
• Ensure all staff have access to and understand CAT4 results
• Involve parents in supporting areas for improvement at home

Consider Further Evaluation

• Screen for Special Educational Needs if scores are consistently low across all batteries
• Conduct a reading age check, as this may influence CAT4 scores

CAT4 scoring is done by a computer in both paper and online editions. The paper-based test scores are sent to GL Assessment and the scored reports are return to the school in up to fifteen workdays. The computer-based edition reports are scored automatically and receivable on demand.

 The CAT4 is significantly different from the regular curriculum program. Therefore, familiarizing students with the testing material prior to the exam is crucial. To help you prepare, TestPrep-Online currently offers CAT4 Practice Packs for Level A, Level B, Level C, Level D, Level E, Level F, and Level G, all containing sample questions, practice tests, and detailed explanations!

Looking for another level? Try our CogAT Packs.