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NEW!
 

Spatial and Abstract Reasoning Test 
 

Introducing the SAR

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​The ERC's Spatial and Abstract Reasoning (SAR) test is an online assessment tailored to Irish post-primary schools, offering an evaluation of incoming First Year students' spatial and abstract reasoning abilities.

There are both Irish and English-language versions available; for more information about the test in Irish, click here.

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Benefits of the SAR

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Decades of research highlight the link between spatial and abstract reasoning and success in STEM fields both globally and locally in Ireland.

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Across numerous years of testing through the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), Irish students have generally performed above the average for participating countries in all measured mathematical subtests. However, across multiple cycles of PISA, participating Irish students performed comparatively weaker in the content area of "Space & Shape". By using the SAR test, it is hoped to better measure and address more effectively this challenging component of the maths curriculum.

 

The SAR test results provide insights to guidance counsellors and subject teachers alike, helping to highlight students' strengths. Assessing students' performance in spatial and abstract reasoning early in their secondary schooling helps schools to design programmes and activities to boost these skills.

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Key Features of the SAR

 

  • Online Testing: Administered through ERC's user-friendly online platform, DOTS.

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  • Detailed Sections: The SAR test is divided into two subtests, each with two sections:

    • Spatial Reasoning: Reflections and Rotations; Nets and Perspectives

    • Abstract Reasoning: Sets of Shapes; Sequences and Patterns

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  • Timing: The test takes approximately one hour, including setup and instructions, ensuring efficient use of class time.

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  • Irish Norms: Designed for the Irish context, the SAR test offers specific, relevant results to the Irish educational environment

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  • Variety of Forms: Students are assessed on one of five randomly assigned test forms to ensure wide content coverage

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  • Comprehensive View: The SAR test can be used in conjunction with the Drumcondra Reasoning Test (Verbal and Numerical Reasoning) for a more complete evaluation

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