Distinguish between norm-referenced tests and criterion-referenced or curriculum-based assessments in the context of school-based evaluation.

• A. Norm-referenced tests compare performance to a normative sample to determine relative standing; criterion-referenced/curriculum-based assessments measure mastery against specific criteria or the curriculum.
• B. They are the same.
• C. Norm-referenced tests measure the curriculum.
• D. Criterion-referenced tests are not used in schools.

Answer: (A)

When evaluating students, the key idea is what the test compares a student's performance to. Norm-referenced tests measure where a student stands relative to a larger group by comparing scores to a normative sample, producing ranks or percentile/standard scores. Criterion-referenced or curriculum-based assessments, in contrast, determine whether a student has achieved specific skills or standards defined by the curriculum, regardless of how peers performed.

This distinction matters in school: norm-referenced tools help describe relative standing and identify overall ability levels, while criterion-referenced or curriculum-based tools show mastery of targeted objectives and guide instruction and progress toward standards. The statement aligns with how these measurements are designed to function, unlike claims that they are the same, that norm-referenced tests measure the curriculum, or that criterion-referenced tests aren’t used in schools.