What is the purpose of prompting a participant to show something?

The purpose of prompting a participant to show something is primarily to clarify their answer. When participants are asked to provide a visual or physical representation of their thoughts or responses, it helps in making their understanding more explicit. This can illuminate any areas of confusion or miscommunication by allowing the examiner to gauge the participant's comprehension firsthand. Visual aids or demonstrations can also facilitate a more in-depth discussion, offering insights into the participant's thought processes and reasoning.

This approach is particularly important in assessments like the WISC-V, as it ensures that responses are not only verbal but are also supported by tangible examples. This dual approach can enhance the quality of the assessment by providing richer, more detailed information about the child's cognitive abilities and learning style.