What is the Fairfax Abilities Test (FxAT)?

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) will be introducing a new Fairfax Abilities Test (FxAT) to 2nd Graders this fall. This new test is replacing the previously used Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT). The FxAT is a customized form of the CogAT specifically designed for use in FCPS. This assessment is used as a part of the screening process for advanced academic services

What is the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT)?

The Cognitive Abilities Test is a group ability test that measures general intellectual ability. The test consists of three batteries: Verbal, Quantitative, and Nonverbal. Each battery is designed to assess a group of general abstract reasoning skills that research suggests are related to learning and problem solving. The Verbal and Quantitative Batteries require the student to use verbal and mathematical concepts that are acquired from experiences both in and out of school. The Nonverbal Battery uses geometric shapes and figures that have little direct relationship to formal school instruction.

What are the similarities and differences between the two tests?

All tests use a multiple choice format. The FxAT and CogAT are timed and have three sections which yield three sub scores, one for each section. The NNAT is also timed and has one section and one score. The highest possible score for each sub test of the FxAT, CogAT and the NNAT is 160. The average score for each test is 100. The tests are given according to a child’s grade level and the score is based on his/her age. In Fairfax County Public Schools, the tests are administered by classroom teachers, usually in multiple settings. Occasionally, other staff, such as the counselor, administrator, or testing coordinator may administer the tests.

Tags: Developmental Reading Assess, DRA, Fairfax Abilities Test, FxAT, Gifted, Screening Test, Test