Answer to Question 1
D
Answer to Question 2
For criterion-referenced measures, or standards-based assessments, the scores have meaning in and of themselves. This approach is most appropriate when the measure has a clearly definable connection to a particular knowledge, skill, or ability and measurable standards for passing have been established. For example, firefighter candidates might be expected to reach a certain criterion measure, such as running up four flights of stairs in full gear in a certain amount of time before they can advance to the next stage of the hiring process. Another example is passing a written driver's license with a score of 85 correct or better. On criterion-referenced measures it is easy to see what a particular score indicates about proficiency or competence.
Norm-referenced measures have meaning only when compared to the scores of others. For example, a score of 80 on a leadership inventory means nothing by itself. The relevance of the score is established in reference to the scores of others. If the scores of average score was 70 then clearly 80 is above average whereas if the average score was 90 then clearly 80 is below average. The variability of the scores of others also is an important consideration. Often it is useful to convert raw scores on norm-referenced measures into standard scores (or percentiles) because this provides the kind of comparative information needed to use the scores.
A true albino squirrel. Note the pink eyes.
Apparent and True Orbits of Alpha Centauri.
True-color image of layers of haze in Titan's atmosphere.
Coefficients of relatedness: How kin selection works.
The fact that a mother works outside the home has no negative effect on the well-being of her child ...