Which type of test compares an individual child's score to the average score of peers?

The choice of a norm-referenced test is correct because this type of assessment is specifically designed to compare an individual's performance to that of a larger group, typically a representative sample of peers. In norm-referenced tests, scores are interpreted in the context of a distribution of scores from a normative group, allowing educators and professionals to see how one child measures against typical performance levels.

These tests are useful for identifying where a student falls in relation to the standard benchmark established by their age or grade-level peers, which can help in making decisions about appropriate interventions, support, and educational placements. Norm-referenced tests often yield percentile ranks, standard scores, or other metrics that clearly indicate a child's standing relative to others in a comparative manner.

In contrast, criterion-referenced tests assess performance against a predetermined set of criteria or learning standards, focusing on the individual's mastery of specific skills rather than comparison to peers. Formative assessments are intended for ongoing feedback during the learning process to inform instruction, and summative assessments evaluate student learning at the end of an instructional unit by comparing overall performance against defined standards. These assessment types do not center on a peer comparison basis as norm-referenced tests do.