Tougher score scales when LSAT attendance rises....

[jdphenom316]

Does anybody know if there is a correlation between a tougher LSAT scoring scale and dates with larger relative amounts of test takers?

I see that June 2002 had a tougher score scale compared to June 1997. I assume there was a higher attendance in 2002 due to the tech bubble bursting and the economic slowdown.

Any thoughts?

[Fizz1]

Phenom,

Im still trying to find out exactly how the scale works.  Is it comparable to when the teacher grades on a curve in a class, i.e. going from the highest score if not a 100%?

[Julie Fern]

phrase "grade on curve" always amuse julie.  everyone grade on curve.  only questions how curve constructed, and why.

by way:  lsat curve have nothing whatsoever do with number people taking test.

[Fizz1]

Julie not make Fizz feel better.  Still have head in clouds.

[Julie Fern]

meteorology not answer your poblem.

[jdphenom316]

Julie, I  didn't mean that the LSAT literally changes its grading scale based on the amount of students. Other factors including, the increased numbers of people taking test, during a recession more professionals going back to school that may do better on the LSAT, etc etc...

I bet you if you were to juxtapose two graphs, one representing attendance and another representing score scale, there would be some interesting extrapolations to make. I hypothesize that you would see the scoring scale easier during non recession years or years when attendance is at normal levels. Those extrapolations would not offer insight as to the reason why by any means.   

[Julie Fern]

that pretty much what julie take you mean.  but seem just as likely those hypothetical extra people not as committed to lsat prep as others and so would not do as well.

[wyatth]

lsat scale represents the percentile where you scored, compared to other test takers. amount of test takers does not change this scale.
"hardness" goes up and down. when tests require more right answers to get a reported score, that test is considered "easier".

[Julie Fern]

actually, percentile rflect percentile.  scale just framework which percentile applied.

[legally-brunette]

I <3 Julie. Is there any word yet though for how the curve might look for the June 2009 LSAT or will that only be announced after the scores?