Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS)

The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) is an IQ test designed to

measure intelligence and cognitive ability in adults and older adolescents. The original
WAIS (Form I) was published in February 1955 by David Wechsler, as a revision of the
Wechsler–Bellevue Intelligence Scale, released in 1939. It is currently in its fourth
edition (WAIS-IV) released in 2008 by Pearson, and is the most widely used IQ test, for
both adults and older adolescents, in the world. Data collection for the next version
(WAIS 5) began in 2016 and is projected to be complete in 2019.

Wechsler–Bellevue Intelligence Scale

The Wechsler–Bellevue tests were innovative in the 1930s because they:

1. gathered tasks created for nonclinical purposes for administration as a "clinical

test battery",
2. used the point scale concept instead of the age scale, and
3. included a non-verbal performance scale

The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-IV)

The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-IV) is an individually administered
IQ test used with children aged from 6 to 16. Younger children are tested using the
Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI). Older children and
adults are tested using the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS).

There are 15 subtests on the WISC-IV but they may not all be used. In addition to
subtest scores a combined composite score is reported (the IQ). Composite scores
relating to specific cognitive areas may also be reported (index scores can be produced
in the areas of Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Reasoning, Working Memory and
Processing Speed.)

Part of the WISC test protocol is to see how children will do when presented with
questions of a type they haven't seen before. There is nothing on this page which is not
publicly available information but we do not recommend that you attempt to familiarize
your child with the content of the WISC using the information on this page or other
sources. If your child is tested they will be given clear instructions and the testing will
not proceed unless the tester believes that they understand what they are required to
do.

Any parent teaches their child and we look for quality resources to help us to do that.
Most parents have no difficulty knowing how to teach their children the alphabet or how
to count. Many parents have more difficulty knowing how to teach their children how to
think. Finding out that their children will be taking a test like the WISC is often the first
time they start to worry that they've missed something. Browsing the resources below
should reassure you that your child has been exposed to the skills tested for on the
WISC even if you weren't doing it consciously. If your child has areas of weakness you'd
like to help them improve, or areas of strength where they would like access to
enrichment material, the links below will help you find appropriate material.

Block Design

Block Design measures an individual’s ability to analyze and synthesize an abstract

design and reproduce that design from colored plastic blocks. Spatial visualization and
analysis, simultaneous processing, visual-motor coordination, dexterity, and nonverbal
concept formation are involved. The students use logic and reasoning to successfully
complete the items.

Block Design sub-test is a timed core Perceptual Reasoning sub-test.

Children are given bi-colored blocks and must arrange them to duplicate a printed
image or modeled design.
Suggestions:

- Color Cubes (age 3 to adult. This classic toy is suitable for all ages. Each cube
has four sides in a solid color and 2 sides which are bi-colored.)
- Pattern Block Activity Pack (age 5-11. A classic math manipulative used to
encourage geometric exploration.)
- Tangramables and Tangrams (age 4 to adult. A classic Chinese geometric
puzzle enjoyed by all ages.)
- Building Thinking Skills Figural Activities (the highest level in this series is called
Building Thinking Skills Level 3 Figural. The lower levels contain Verbal activities
in the first half of the book and Figural activities in the second half. Grade
designations on these books are for average children and highly capable children
can work well ahead)
- Architect Series Games (age 6 to adult. A set of four books sold separately
contain spatial visualization puzzles which are recreated with a specific set of
geoblocks. Great fun for all ages.)