Read the conversion chart of the level measurement tool
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If you use AR (accelerated reader) as a reading motivation tool to set goals and track progress, you are undoubtedly aware of its ability to assess general reading levels as well.
The problem is that measuring reading levels does go beyond their best position as a literacy tool, which includes better resources like DRA, DIBELS, LEXILE, READY RECOVEY, and RIGBY. There are also issues with availability, and most schools use only one or two of these tools in early primary schools. But what happens if you need to convert the general level from one program to another?
1. Lexile framework for reading
lexile.com
The Lexile framework is the most commonly used tool in American schools. It measures text complexity and students’ reading ability on the same scale.
Advantages: Integrated into many platforms (e.g., map growth, achievement 3000), easy to match to student level
Disadvantages: No background knowledge or interests considered
Best for: Grade 2+, especially with adaptive assessment
2. Fountas & Pinnell (F&P)
heinemann.com
This A-Z guided reading system uses teacher observation and running records.
Pros: Rich qualitative insights, perfect for small groups
Disadvantages: Time-consuming and somewhat subjective
Best for: K – 5 Guidance Reading Plan
3. DRA (Developmental Reading Assessment)
Pearson Assessment
DRA provides reading levels based on fluency, accuracy and comprehension.
Advantages: A thorough snapshot of reading behavior
Disadvantages: Personal testing time is required
Best for: K – 3 diagnostic use
4. Celebrity Reading
Renaissance learning: A computer adaptive test that quickly recognizes students’ reading levels and ZPD (proximal development area).
Advantages: Fast, scalable, rich data
Disadvantages: Less diagnostic depth
Best for: Benchmarks and filters for Grades 2 – 12
5. iPreparing for reading diagnosis
I-Ready.com: This adaptive test provides personalized insight into students’ reading abilities and is directly linked to teaching content.
Advantages: Detailed report, integrated course
Disadvantages: Proprietary system; requires complete purchase
Best for: Schools using I-Ready across subjects
6. Read A – Z and Raz-kids
Read A – Z | Raz-kids
These courses assign students a level of readership and allow for ongoing reading assessments.
Pros: Huge digital library with built-in quizzes
Disadvantages: Upgrades are not always consistent with other systems
Best: Daily Reading Exercises and Progress Monitoring (K – Grade 5)
7. Informal Reading List (IRIS)
Publishers vary – Review includes qualitative reading lists and basic reading lists
Advantages: Teacher-led, providing rich insights
Disadvantages: Not standardized, it takes time
Best: Personal Diagnosis and Conference-Based Teaching
Read the conversion chart of the level measurement tool
Read the conversion chart of the level measurement tool
