Many education systems worldwide have implemented "gifted classes" or "advanced programs" designed to provide accelerated and more challenging curricula for high-potential students. This approach aligns with the principle of "differentiated instruction" and helps better stimulate students' learning interests.
In the U.S. elementary school system, for example, Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) begin in third grade, where the mathematics curriculum progresses one year ahead of standard classes—third graders study fourth-grade math content.
Identifying Gifted Students: CogAT and NNAT Tests
The two most common assessments for identifying gifted students in the U.S. are the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) and the Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test (NNAT). Compared to complex math competitions like the Math Olympiad, CogAT and NNAT are relatively less difficult, allowing parents to effectively improve their children's performance through at-home preparation.
I. CogAT Test Analysis
Developed by Riverside and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, CogAT evaluates students' cognitive development and problem-solving abilities through multiple-choice questions. School districts determine whether to administer CogAT, with many states allowing local discretion regarding testing schedules and formats.
1. Test Structure
The current CogAT Form 7 version comprises three sections:
- Verbal Battery: Includes picture/verbal analogies, sentence completion, and picture/verbal classification.
- Quantitative Battery: Features number analogies, number series, and number puzzles.
- Nonverbal Battery: Contains figure classification, figure matrices, and paper folding problems.
Each section takes approximately 30-45 minutes, with total testing time between 2-3 hours. The test contains 118-176 questions depending on the level and school implementation.
2. Test Levels
CogAT offers 10 levels for K-12 students, with question types varying by age group. Lower-grade tests typically emphasize nonverbal problems.
3. Scoring System
CogAT provides comprehensive score reports including:
- Standard Age Score (SAS): Mean of 100, standard deviation of 16
- Stanine scores: 1-9 scale (9 being highest)
- Raw scores: Direct count of correct answers
II. NNAT Test Analysis
Developed by Pearson, NNAT assesses reasoning and problem-solving abilities in students aged 5-17. Its language-neutral design makes it suitable for diverse linguistic backgrounds. School districts may choose between CogAT and NNAT based on local educational policies.
1. Test Structure
NNAT3 contains 48 questions across four categories (30 minutes duration):
- Pattern completion
- Analogical reasoning
- Serial reasoning
- Spatial visualization
2. Test Levels
NNAT offers seven levels with varying question types by grade. For example, Level A (kindergarten) only includes pattern completion and analogical reasoning.
3. Scoring System
NNAT reports include:
- Raw score
- Naglieri Ability Index (NAI)
- Percentile ranking
III. Preparation Strategies for CogAT/NNAT
Effective preparation begins with understanding age-appropriate test formats. Parents can utilize:
- Grade-specific prep materials available on platforms like Amazon
- Online courses focusing on logical reasoning and spatial thinking (e.g., Pea Math or AirClass)
- Engaging activities (puzzles, drawing) to build 30-45 minute focus periods
The preparation process should emphasize developing cognitive abilities rather than rote practice, maintaining a positive learning attitude to enhance long-term academic competitiveness.