Describes four inventories in summary form to allow the reader to identify the ones that might best suit the assessment purposes and needs. (MG)

Notes that the main problem with using Informal Reading Inventories (IRIs) for measuring reading growth is that running records and miscue analyses are gathered on variable levels of text that are appropriate for each child. Presents several possible solutions to the measurement problem beyond the simple profile descriptions usually reported from…

Discusses the use of Informal Reading Inventories (IRIs) in evaluating reading performance. Notes that although the IRI provides an in-depth evaluation of reading behavior, it should be used in conjunction with other information to assess reading ability. (MM)

The article reviews validity and reliability studies on the informal reading inventory, a diagnostic instrument to identify reading grade-level placement and strengths and weaknesses in work recognition and comprehension. Gives suggestions to improve the validity and reliability of existing inventories and to evaluate them in newly published…

The paper examines two general methods of scoring oral reading inventories employing textual passages. Either the total number of oral alterations can be used as an index to reading ability, or only those alterations that disrupt the semantic structure of the text can be used. (Author)

The pattern of correct and incorrect responses on the Slosson Intelligence Test (SIT) can be used by teachers to estimate the student's strengths and weaknesses. A scheme for classifying the items was developed to aid teachers and other professionals interested in conducting an informal item analysis with the SIT so it could be added to other…

Reviews the strengths and weaknesses of 5 representative standardized reading tests and 7 informal methods for testing reading. Lists 10 considerations to help in the selection, evaluation, and use of reading tests. (DMM)

Noting that ratios can be used to great advantage in scoring informal reading tests, such as the cloze procedure and the informal reading inventory, this paper explains the procedures for calculating cross-ratios and percentages when computing scores for informal reading assessments. Examples are provided for using ratios to determine scores for…

Concludes that modified standard reading inventories may be made more useful for assessing the specific abilities and needs of disabled readers. Offers suggestions for making modifications. (FL)

Focusing on better assessing the thinking, or meaning-making, aspects of reading that are emphasized in current views of the reading process, this book presents the Informal Reading-Thinking Inventory (IR-TI) which offers options to enhance assessment beyond assessing students' listening level, oral reading of words, and basic comprehension. The…

Presents principles for devising and using developmentally appropriate procedures for assessing young children's reading and writing. Contends that informal observations and structured performance sample assessments are more appropriate than standardized tests. Offers specific examples of assessments of several aspects of literacy development. (RH)

The limitations of standardized tests of reading ability in young children are examined and authentic assessment alternatives, including multiple measures of student learning and the close interaction of assessment and teaching, are identified. Examples of authentic classroom assessments are detailed for emergent readers, beginning readers, and…

Describes different methods of evaluating the reading and language skills of students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Student activities include creating a slide show to illustrate a story, decorating paper bags with key scenes and placing items related to the story inside, and creating book jackets. (CR)

Reading comprehension is often tested by teachers through verbal questioning of students on a literal, interpretive, or evaluative level. The drawbacks of this method are that it often doesn't develop understanding or require interpretation. Presents an example of how to develop thinking and comprehension through a questioning strategy focused on…

Examines the problems of using standardized tests to measure the development of early literacy. Notes that assessment is used to design instruction, and should reflect the skills and knowledge that are developing in young children. Provides examples of informal assessment contexts, such as interactive dialogues, observation, and performance…