What does the IQ-Achievement Discrepancy Model assess?

The IQ-Achievement Discrepancy Model specifically assesses the difference between IQ scores and academic achievement scores. This model is often used to identify learning disabilities by looking for significant discrepancies between a student's intellectual potential, as indicated by their IQ, and their actual academic performance in subjects such as reading, writing, and math. When a student’s IQ score is significantly higher than their achievement scores, it may suggest a learning disability or other barriers to academic success, prompting further evaluation and support.

This approach emphasizes the need to understand not just a student’s cognitive abilities but also how those abilities translate into academic success. The model has historically been a part of eligibility criteria for special education services, helping educators tailor interventions to meet the individual needs of students who may be struggling despite having the intellectual capacity to perform well.