Condensed guide for the Stanford revision of the Binet-Simon intelligence tests - Lewis M. Terman

Point to the first group of words (For the, etc.), and say, "Here is a sentence that has the words all mixed up, so that they don't make any sense. If the words were changed around in the right order they would make a good sentence. Look carefully and see if you can tell me how the sentence ought to read." Do not hurry S., but allow only one minute. If S. fails on the first sentence, read it for him slowly and correctly, pointing at each word as you speak it. Same procedure for second and third, except that no help is given.

Credit if two sentences of three are correct, or one correct and two nearly correct. Time, one minute each. (See The Measurement of Intelligence, p. 288.)

5. Interpretation of Fables

Present fables in order given below. Say, "You know what a fable is? Fables, you know, are little stories which teach us a lesson. I am going to read a fable to you. Listen carefully, and when I am through I will ask you to tell me what lesson the fable teaches us." After reading, say, "What lesson does that teach us?" Question S. if response is not clear. Proceed with (b), (c), (d), and (e) thus: "Here is another. Listen again and tell me what lesson this fable teaches us." After each ask, "What lesson does that teach us?"

(a) Hercules and the wagoner

A man was driving along a country road, when the wheels suddenly sank in a deep rut. The man did nothing but look at the wagon and call loudly to Hercules to come and help him. Hercules came up, looked at the man, and said: "Put your shoulder to the wheel, my man, and whip up your oxen." Then he went away and left the driver.

(b) The milkmaid and her plans

A milkmaid was carrying her pail of milk on her head, and was thinking to herself thus: "The money for this milk will buy 4 hens; the hens will lay at least 100 eggs; the eggs will produce at least 75 chicks; and with the money which the chicks will bring I can buy a new dress to wear instead of the ragged one I have on." At this moment she looked down at herself, trying to think how she would look in her new dress; but as she did so the pail of milk slipped from her head and dashed upon the ground. Thus all her imaginary schemes perished in a moment.