Testing intelligence measures students’ ability to think critically and solve problems, while testing for knowledge evaluates what they have learned from the curriculum. For instance, as a Grade 9 Filipino teacher, testing intelligence might involve presenting an unfamiliar poem and asking students to interpret its meaning or identify underlying themes, which assesses reasoning and comprehension skills. In contrast, testing for knowledge could involve asking students to define “talinghaga” or enumerate the characteristics of a sonnet, which checks their mastery of previously taught concepts. Intelligence testing is most appropriate when gauging analytical thinking and adaptability, while knowledge testing is best for verifying content retention and understanding.

Example of an Intelligence Test
Raven’s Progressive Matrices (RPM)
This is a widely used nonverbal intelligence test designed to measure abstract reasoning and problem-solving ability. It consists of a series of visual patterns with a missing piece, and the test-taker must choose the correct piece from multiple options to complete the pattern.

How It Works

The patterns become progressively more complex as the test goes on.
It does not rely on language or prior knowledge, making it suitable for diverse populations.
It primarily assesses fluid intelligence—the ability to reason and solve new problems.

Strengths

Culture-fair: Minimal language requirements reduce bias.
Measures reasoning ability: Good for assessing cognitive potential rather than learned content.
Quick and easy to administer: Often used in educational and employment settings.

Weaknesses

Limited scope: Focuses on abstract reasoning, not practical or verbal skills.
Test anxiety and unfamiliarity: Students may struggle if they have never encountered such tasks.
Not curriculum-based: Cannot measure subject mastery or specific knowledge.