What does a score from Symbol Search primarily assess in children?

A score from Symbol Search primarily assesses visual perception and processing speed in children. This subtest requires children to quickly identify and match symbols from a set of options, which provides insight into how effectively they can perceive visual stimuli and process information rapidly.

By analyzing the ability to scan, compare, and process visual details, the Symbol Search subtest evaluates not only visual discrimination but also the speed at which a child can complete this task. This information is crucial in understanding a child’s cognitive abilities related to visual processing, which can impact their performance in academic tasks involving reading and mathematics.

The other options, while related to different cognitive processes, do not specifically capture the skills assessed by Symbol Search. Numerical reasoning pertains to mathematical problem-solving, verbal reasoning involves language and comprehension skills, and memory retention focuses on the ability to remember information, none of which are the primary focus of this particular subtest.