Among students who are English as a Second Language (ESL), how do their IQ score ranges typically compare with those of students whose first language is English?

• A. Exhibit a range of IQ scores that is about the same as that of students for whom English is a first language
• B. Typically have above-average math skills
• C. Have much lower IQ scores than students for whom English is a first language
• D. Cannot be expected to read at grade level

Answer: (A)

IQ scores measure general cognitive ability, not language proficiency. ESL status doesn’t inherently limit cognitive potential, so when tests are appropriate and fairly interpreted, ESL students exhibit a wide range of IQ scores similar to students whose first language is English. Language factors can influence performance on tests that rely heavily on verbal content, but they don’t change the overall distribution of IQ. That’s why the best answer is that ESL students’ IQ score ranges are about the same as those of students whose first language is English. The other options imply consistent advantages or deficits (in math, overall IQ, or reading level) tied to language status, which isn’t supported by how IQ relates to language proficiency.