Two of the most regularly used intelligence tests are the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale and the Wechsler scales. The Stanford-Binet intelligence test is an American variant of the original French Binet-Simon intelligence test, which was created in 1916 by Stanford University psychologist Lewis Terman.

Intelligence tests have spurred passionate controversy over what types of mental abilities constitute intelligence and whether the IQ accurately evaluates these abilities, with the debate concentrating on cultural bias in test development and standardization procedures. Critics contend that intelligence tests favor those from more affluent backgrounds while discriminating against less privileged racial, ethnic, or social groups. As a result, psychologists have attempted to develop culture-free assessments that more accurately reflect a person's inherent ability. The Johns Hopkins Perceptual Test, devised by Leon Rosenberg in the early 1960s to assess the intelligence of preschool children, has a child try to match random forms (ordinary geometric forms, such as circles, squares, and triangles, are avoided because some children may be more familiar with the forms than others). Another approach presented was to use test material that is relevant to a child's daily environment; for example, urban rather than pastoral images are acceptable for inner-city children.

In terms of knowledge There are several methods for measuring students' prior knowledge and skills. Some are direct measurements, like tests, concept maps, portfolios, and auditions, while others are more indirect, such self-reports, prior course and experience inventories, and so on.

These tests should not be graded and should only be used for diagnostic purposes. They can help you acquire an overview of your students' preparation, identify areas of difficulty, and adapt the course pace.