K-3 Screener & Assessment

A more holistic approach to diagnostic literacy screening and assessment

We are building the next generation of assessments that will present an early, more accurate picture of where an individual child is in a developmental continuum of language and pre-reading/reading skills. In addition to code and language-based skills (similar to traditional screeners), we are studying how trauma, social emotional learning, perceived ability, growth mindset, effort, teacher perceptions of child behavior, parent beliefs, geo-codes, and demographic characteristics may influence and more accurately predict reading ability and risk. For each child, the assessment predicts the likelihood of being a proficient reader up to the end of grade 3 and identifies areas of strength and weakness.

Data collection

In our research, we use data from students across the U.S. including Florida, Georgia, Oregon, and California. This diversity of students helps us understand the many factors that influence reading development in various contexts. To supplement assessment data, we also collect additional data through parent and teacher questionnaires, demographic data, and extant geo-location data connected to each individual student and school. This enables us to more accurately screen children for risk, and identify the factors that contribute to that risk for each student.

Innovative technology to support an efficient and enjoyable user experience

The Reach Every Reader assessment employs innovative computer adaptive technology developed by our team to provide a personalized experience based on user responses.  A game-based design provides an engaging and enjoyable experience for students. We are also testing voice-recognition technology to assist in the electronic scoring of verbal responses.

Screening tools for reading risk

Reach Every Reader’s literacy screener, the Interstellar Express Hotshot, is intended as a quick literacy screener used to determine if a child is at risk for being a struggling reader. It consists of validated measures based on a Risk and Resilience model. The content is thematic and includes characters to support engagement from students. The screener makes use of innovative, computer adaptive assessment algorithms that ensure efficient administration and accurate results.

CBM at Home was designed to help parents and educators understand a child’s risk for developing reading difficulties in the future. This resource includes short, timed tests that measure important early reading skills for K-2 aged children.

CBM at Home is available in both English  and Spanish.