Intelligence and achievement tests have, in general, a standard deviation of 15. This is clarified in the figure below. The IQ of 100 corresponds to a z score of 0. Deviations above the average IQ will be higher than 100 and deviations below will be less that 100. Recall the laws pertaining to the accommodations for those with disability suggest that documentation must demonstrate a significant negative impairment.
Standard scores give a way of measuring that level of significance.
If the IQ of a student were 89 would that represent and IQ within the average range of abilities or one that is significantly discrepant. Go to the top of the page. To return to the GED Homepage To return to the page on learning disabilities To return to the Accommodating Accommodations information page.