Grossmont Cuyamaca CCD Scaled Scores and Standard Scores Discussion Paper

First Topic: Defining Scaled Scores and Standard Scores

a) Define Scaled Scores and Standard Scores.

b) List one reason why a person might want to ‘Scale’ a set of scores. Then, list one reason why a person might want to ‘Standardize’ (convert to z-scores) a set of scores.

Second Topic: Standard Scores (z-scores) in your Own Life

a) Consider this example. Some politicians use a number of complex words in their speeches (e.g. egregious, ubiquitous, etc.), while other politicians use far simpler words (e.g. great, big, etc.). Using your knowledge of z-scores, answer this question:

Which politician is trying to present themselves as being more standard deviations above the mean when it comes to language ability?

b) Second Question: Which politician is probably going to reach a larger target audience? Why?