So, since we have all of these programs that we use to teach the student to read, how do we know where to start? Most programs have their own pre-assessments for placement. Some just expect you to start at the beginning. Let's talk about the one's I have recommended.
Next Steps is based on a running record assessment that is done at the beginning of the course and then every day as the student makes improvements. The running record begins with a basic reading (with a timed section) at the 1st grade level, followed by comprehension questions. Based on comprehension, decoding accuracy, and fluency, the student will stay at that level or move on to the next grade level passage. This continues until the student tops out at a grade level with a research-based fluency rate (changes depending on the grade), 60% comprehension, and 93% decoding accuracy.
Comprehension is probably the trickiest thing to assess. It varies depending on the context and the student's background. I might assess one student who has spent a lot of time with teachers summarizing things, so they do well summarizing. Another might have had a parent read to them and talk about what they were reading. Student background makes a huge difference in comprehension. The good thing about comprehension strategies is that they can be applied to any level of reading difficulty.
6 Minute Solution should be based on the Next Steps running fluency record. You can use the grade level and fluency rate to determine where the student should be. Appropriate fluency rates are available all over the place. I like the one used by DIBELS because of the breadth of research on it.
Phonemic Awareness Assessment is mostly feeling out what word dissecting abilities the students have. DIBELS has a good phonemic awareness assessment for young students. Its benchmarks are easily followed as well. Once you have this, then you can determine what type of activities your student needs.
Well, Have Fun and Happy Reading!
Seth,
ReplyDeleteYou seem to have really done a lot of research trying to figure this out for your students. That is great.
We do use the DIBELS program in Kane County and I really like it. I do like what you said about his other program using nonfiction entries for the students to read. I have noticed that DIBELS goes both ways.
Reading Comprehension is pretty difficult to monitor, we depend on our A.R. program here to determine how well students are reading. Of course, DIBELS has a comprehension component also. I also, of course use my reading book to test comprehension orally or otherwise.
We use the Spalding Reading/Writing program in our district and it does an excellent job of combining phonics, spelling, reading, and writing into one program. It is also teacher driven, meaning that we have a guide, but we can adjust and make changes as we see fit. I like having something so flexible.
I have struggled at times with being able to see exactly how my students are doing. Student backgrounds definitely have different effects on their comprehension ability. Parents play a key role (of course) in that area as well as the others.
I think I have a lot to learn in this area. Thanks for sharing your insights and experience. As I take these courses I keep taking mental notes of things I want to improve on and your blog is motivating my thinking in this area. Step by step right?
Jeff Corry
Totally step by step, Jeff.
ReplyDeleteI think most schools (hopefully all) have good programs that integrate the 5-pillars of reading, but being able to step back and look at how they all interact takes some time. We also need to make sure there is balance between phonics, vocabulary, writing, comprehension, and fluency. I have seen how focusing too much on one component makes students good at one thing, but still poor overall readers. I think revisiting the 5 pillars and weighing the strengths of your programs and your own abilities as a teacher will help to meet the needs of your students.
Jeff,
ReplyDeleteThis was fun to read what you do. Sometimes I get set into my own subject that I teach and never realize how other teachers are always working with their own students. The technology is great to use to help the students improve. I found it very intersting to see how reading programs are implemented for students. So my question is do parents see the blog and make comments? How is this recieved?
With the age group of students I work with we are constantly looking to improve reading levels. It is not always fun for students to just sit and read. I will use some of the info with my students.
ReplyDeleteIt looks like you cover everything very well. I agree that comprehension is very tough to assess. Even if you have a decent assessment, how can you even come close to getting inside a student's head and understanding what they know. Great post!
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