Intelligence and Achievement
Chloe Ramirez
7 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This study guide covers theories of intelligence (g factor, multiple intelligences, triarchic theory, CHC theory), measuring intelligence (IQ tests, psychometric principles like standardization, validity, and reliability), systemic issues in intelligence testing (Flynn effect, group differences, misuse of scores), and the difference between academic achievement and intelligence (achievement vs. aptitude tests, fixed vs. growth mindset). It also includes practice questions and exam tips.
#AP Psychology: Intelligence - Your Night-Before-the-Exam Guide 🧠
Hey there! Let's make sure you're feeling super confident about intelligence for tomorrow's AP Psych exam. We're going to break it down, connect the dots, and get you ready to rock! This guide is designed to be your ultimate review tool, focusing on what's most important and helping you remember it all.
#1. What is Intelligence?
#1.1 Historical vs. Modern Perspectives
- Early Challenges: Defining and measuring intelligence has always been tricky, leading to some biased approaches. Think about it – what is intelligence, really? 🤔
- The Big Debate: Is intelligence one thing (a general ability) or many different things (multiple abilities)? This is a core question in psychology.
- Key Players:
- Charles Spearman: Proposed the g factor, a single general intelligence that influences all cognitive tasks.
- Howard Gardner: Argued for multiple intelligences, like linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, etc.
#1.2 General Ability vs. Multiple Abilities
- g Factor Theory: A single, overarching intelligence affects performance across all cognitive tasks. Think of it as a central processing unit in a computer.
- Multiple Intelligences Theory: Individuals have different strengths and weaknesses across various areas (verbal, mathematical, musical). It’s like having a diverse skill set.
- Robert Sternberg's Triarchic Theory: Three types of intelligence:
- Analytical: Problem-solving skills.
- Creative: Novel thinking and innovation.
- Practical: Applying knowledge to real-world situations.
- Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) Theory: A hierarchical model with broad abilities (fluid reasoning, crystallized knowledge) and narrow abilities (memory, processing speed).
Memory Aid: Think of "G-MAC" to remember the main theories: General (Spearman), Multiple (Gardner), Analytical/Creative/Practical (Sternberg), CHC (Cattell-Horn-Carroll).
#2. Measuring Intelligence
#2.1 Evolution of IQ Tests
- Early IQ Tests: The Stanford-Binet test used to calculate IQ by dividing mental age by chronological age. This is no longer used...
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