AP Psychology Flashcards: Intelligence and Achievement
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 31 cards to help you master important concepts.
What is split-half reliability?
Split-half reliability is a measure of a test's consistency where scores on one half of the test questions are compared to scores on the other half.
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What is split-half reliability?
Split-half reliability is a measure of a test's consistency where scores on one half of the test questions are compared to scores on the other half.
What is stereotype threat?
Stereotype threat is a situational pressure that can negatively influence test scores when individuals fear confirming negative stereotypes about their group.
What is construct validity?
Construct validity is the degree to which a test measures the specific theoretical concept or trait it is designed to measure.
How does academic achievement compare to intelligence?
Academic achievement measures what someone knows, which can be influenced by factors like mindset, whereas intelligence is a broader, more debated concept of cognitive ability.
Why is defining and measuring intelligence considered complex?
It is complex because the process is subject to bias and there is an ongoing debate over whether intelligence is one general ability or multiple abilities.
What is the difference between an achievement test and an aptitude test?
Achievement tests measure what a person already knows, whereas aptitude tests are designed to predict a person's future performance.
A history teacher gives a final exam covering all the material from the semester. What kind of test is this?
This is an achievement test because it measures what the students know and have learned over the course.
What is the central debate in modern and historical theories of intelligence?
The central debate is whether intelligence is a single general ability, known as 'g', or if it consists of multiple distinct abilities.
What is reliability in testing?
Reliability means a test yields similar, consistent results each time it is administered.
Why is it important to consider systemic issues when using intelligence assessments?
Systemic issues like biases and inequities can negatively influence scores, leading to inaccurate measurements and potentially discriminatory uses of the results.
What is a 'growth mindset' in the context of intelligence?
A growth mindset is the belief that intelligence is malleable and can be developed, as opposed to being a fixed trait.
A student who believes 'I'm just not a math person' and avoids challenging math problems is demonstrating what kind of belief about intelligence?
This student is demonstrating a belief that intelligence is fixed, which is the opposite of a growth mindset and can negatively affect achievement.
How does the variation of IQ scores within groups compare to the variation between groups?
IQ scores vary more within groups than they do between them, suggesting group averages are not highly meaningful.
What are the core psychometric principles that psychological assessments should follow?
Psychological assessments should adhere to sound psychometric principles, including standardization, validity, and reliability.
What is standardization in testing?
Standardization means a test is administered using consistent procedures for all test-takers.
A test developer gives the same test to a group of students on two separate occasions and finds the scores are very similar. What does this demonstrate?
This demonstrates test-retest reliability, which means the test yields similar results each time it is taken.
What is the goal of creating socio-culturally responsive intelligence assessments?
The goal is to reduce potential inequity and the effects of stereotype threat on test-takers.
What is an achievement test?
An achievement test is a type of assessment that measures what someone currently knows or has learned.
A researcher ensures that every participant receives the exact same instructions and testing environment. This practice upholds which psychometric principle?
This practice upholds the principle of standardization, which ensures consistent administration procedures.
What is an aptitude test?
An aptitude test is a type of assessment designed to predict a person's future performance or their capacity to learn a new skill.
What are two examples of validity measures?
Two common types of validity are construct validity and predictive validity.
How can one's belief about intelligence affect academic achievement?
Believing that intelligence is malleable (a growth mindset) rather than fixed can positively affect a person's academic achievement.
What are some factors that can negatively influence intelligence test scores?
Systemic issues, biases, and inequities can all negatively influence scores on intelligence assessments.
What are two examples of reliability measures?
Two common measures of reliability are test-retest reliability and split-half reliability.
How was IQ historically calculated?
Early intelligence tests yielded an IQ score by dividing a person's mental age by their chronological age.
What is validity in testing?
Validity means a test measures what it is actually designed to measure.
What is meant by 'g' or the general intelligence factor?
The general intelligence factor, or 'g', is the theory that intelligence is a single, general ability that underlies all specific mental abilities.
What is a common use for modern IQ scores?
Modern IQ scores are often used to determine eligibility for educational services.
How have intelligence test scores been used historically to create inequity?
Historically, intelligence test scores have been used to unfairly limit people's access to jobs, education, and immigration.
If scores on a new college entrance exam correlate strongly with students' first-year college GPA, what does the exam have?
The exam has high predictive validity, as it accurately measures what it is designed to measure (future academic performance).
What is the Flynn Effect?
The Flynn Effect is the observation that IQ scores have generally increased over time, likely due to societal factors.