What does the term "normal curve of scores" refer to in the context of assessment?

The term "normal curve of scores" refers to a statistical distribution of test scores, specifically one that follows a bell-shaped curve known as the normal distribution. In this context, the normal curve illustrates how scores are spread across a population. It indicates that most individuals will score near the average, with fewer individuals scoring very high or very low. This distribution is crucial for understanding how test scores can be interpreted, particularly in standardized assessments where comparisons to a norm group are made.

In a normal distribution, properties such as the mean, median, and mode are all located at the center of the curve, and approximately 68% of scores fall within one standard deviation of the mean. This understanding helps educators and psychologists assess individual performance relative to their peers, gauge the effectiveness of interventions, and make data-driven decisions regarding student needs and educational strategies.