A Comparison of the 1976 and 1978 Wide Range Achievement Test

Abstract

This study is a comparative analysis of grade equivalent and standard scores on the 1976 and 1978 revised editions of the Wide Range Achievement Test (WRAT). A previously identified learning disabled sample is utilized. When using standard scores, there were no significant differences between the 1976 and 1978 WRAT for all three subtests. When using grade equivalent scores, two of the three subtests indicated significant mean differences. The comparison indicates consistency of direction for all three subtests, with 1978 Level 1 yielding higher performance and 1978 Level 2 yielding lower performance. It is argued again that standard scores are the more appropriate representation of functioning when considering learning disability needs.