To determine whether the statement "The standard deviation for most distributions of intelligence test scores is 15 points" is true or false, we need to understand some background on intelligence test scores and standard deviation.
1. Understanding Standard Deviation:
Standard deviation is a measure of the amount of variation or dispersion in a set of values. In the context of test scores, it indicates how much individual scores typically differ from the average score (mean).
2. Intelligence Test Scores:
Standardized intelligence tests, such as the IQ test, are designed to have a normal distribution of scores. This means the scores form a bell curve where most individuals' scores cluster around the average, with fewer individuals scoring very high or very low.
3. Specifics About IQ Tests:
Many well-known IQ tests, including the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) and the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales, utilize a standard deviation (SD) of 15 points. This is a standard measure used to quantify the spread of IQ scores around the mean.
4. Given Statement:
The statement claims that the standard deviation for most distributions of intelligence test scores is 15 points. Given the common design of mainstream IQ tests, it is typical and accurate to say that they use a 15-point standard deviation to describe the spread of scores.
Given this detailed understanding, we conclude that the statement is correct.
Answer:
- The given statement "The standard deviation for most distributions of intelligence test scores is 15 points" is True (Answer A).
