Shows some similarities and differences between readability formulas and leveling procedures and reports some current large-scale uses of readability formulas. Presents a dictionary definition of readability and leveling, and a history and background of readability and leveling. Discusses what goes into determining readability and leveling scores.…

Reports that the McCall-Crabbs Standard Test Lessons in Reading were never sufficiently standardized to justify their widespread use as the basis for readability formulae. (DD)

Argues that, while computers make the computation of readability formulas easy, teachers should not forget the need to apply judgment and common sense to the results. Discusses RIXRATE, a computerized version of the Rix index and compares its performance to that of the Rauding Scale. (FL)

Describes recent Austrian research concerning readability formulas, especially the Swedish Lix formula. Describes a prototype for a system of evaluating the individual variables that contribute to the difficulty of student reading materials. (FL)