ar XII. Our data show that when three trials are given the test is too
easy for year XIV, but that it fits this age when only two trials are
allowed; that after the age of 12 or 14 years memory for relatively
meaningless material, like digits or nonsense syllables, improves but
little; and that above this level it does not correlate very closely
with intelligence.

CHAPTER XIX

INSTRUCTIONS FOR "AVERAGE ADULT"

AVERAGE ADULT, 1: VOCABULARY (SIXTY-FIVE DEFINITIONS, 11,700 WORDS)

PROCEDURE and SCORING, as in previous vocabulary tests.[76] At the
average adult level sixty-five words should be correctly defined.

[76] See VIII, 6.

AVERAGE ADULT, 2: INTERPRETATION OF FABLES (SCORE 8)

PROCEDURE. As in year XII, test 6. Use the same fables.

SCORING. The method of scoring is the same as for XII, but the total
score must be 8 points to satisfy the requirements at this level.

REMARKS. For discussion of test, see XII, 5.

AVERAGE ADULT, 3: DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ABSTRACT TERMS

PROCEDURE. Say: _What is the difference between_:--

(a) _Laziness and idleness?_
(b) _Evolution and revolution?_
(c) _Poverty and misery?_
(d) _Character and reputation?_

SCORING. _Three correct contrasting definitions out of four_ are
necessary for a pass. It is not sufficient merely to give a correct
meaning for each word of a pair; the subject must point out a difference
between the two words so as to make a real contrast. For example, if the
subject defines _evolution_ as a "growth" or "gradual change," and
_revolution_ as the turning of a wheel on its axis, the experimenter
should say: "_Yes, but I want you to tell me the difference between
evolution and revolution._" If the contrast is not then forthcoming the
response is marked _minus_.

The following are sample definitions which may be considered
acceptable:--

(a) _Laziness and idleness._ "It is laziness if you won't
work, and idleness if you are willing to work but haven't any
job." "Lots of men are idle who are not lazy and would like to
work if they had something to do." "Laziness means you don't
want to work; idleness means you are not doing anything just
now." "Idle people may be lazy, or they may just happen to be
out of a job." "It is laziness when you don't like to work, and
idleness when you are not working." "An idle person might be
willing to work; a lazy man won't work." "Laziness comes from
within; idl