Universal Screener
Casting a Wide Net for Potential Talent
A universal screener is a way to systematically identify exceptional potential and hidden talent among all populations, including English Language Learners, students with special needs and those who may not be achieving on other traditional academic measures. Using a universal screener is considered a best practice in the field of gifted education.
2nd Grade Universal Screener
Adams 12 Five Star Schools administers the Naglieri General Ability Tests (Nag Gen) to screen all 2nd grade students. The Naglieri General measures general intellectual ability through verbal, nonverbal, and quantitative concepts in a fair and equitable manner. This assessment uses only visuals to identify patterns, relationships, and logic in the absence of language, text, and sound. This allows for students to problem solve regardless of the language they speak and significantly reduces the amount of formal knowledge required. The Naglieri General is a better measure of how students "think" rather than what they "know."
6th Grade Universal Screener
Adams 12 Five Star Schools administers the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT), to screen all 6th grade students. The CogAT measures reasoning and problem-solving skills. The CogAT consists of three assessment batteries; Verbal, Quantitative, and Nonverbal. See below for further information on on the CogAT.