The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV (WAIS-IV) is a comprehensive measure of cognitive ability in adults, comprising 15 core subtests that assess various aspects of intellectual functioning. One of the core subtests is Block Design, which requires examinees to replicate a geometric pattern using seven red and white blocks. The Block Design subtest has been a component of the WAIS since its inception and has been widely used in both research and clinical settings.
| Population | Typical Block Design profile | |------------|-------------------------------| | | Very low; poor spatial organization, left neglect | | Left hemisphere lesion | Often preserved or mildly reduced (verbal mediation may help) | | Nonverbal learning disability (NVLD) | Low relative to verbal IQ; poor holistic processing | | Autism spectrum (without ID) | Variable – often intact or high, but may be slow due to detail focus | | ADHD | Fast but careless errors; loses time bonuses due to impulsivity | | Depression | Slow but accurate; loses speed bonuses | | Alzheimer’s disease (early) | Preserved initially, declines with constructional apraxia | | High intelligence (gifted) | Ceiling score (max points + fast time) | block design wais iv
A: Stop them immediately. Redemonstrate the design and retime. Score based on final correct arrangement within limit. The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV (WAIS-IV) is a
If the first two administered items are scored 0, go back to easier items until two consecutive scores = 1 or 2. | Population | Typical Block Design profile |
4 points (1 accuracy + 3 speed)
– examiner builds first design with examinee.