There are many different ways to measure a student's reading level. The reading level is used by teachers to track and monitor reading growth and development and to make instructional decisions. Students often use their reading level to select books for independent reading. Many times, this level is communicated to parents with little explanation of the meaning or implications. This section of Parent Resources Online is designed to explain what the reading levels mean and how to use reading levels to support your child.
A common way to measure reading levels is by with the Fountas & Pinnell Text Gradient Continuum. With this system, reading levels range from Level A to Level Z. This image shows the range of reading levels along with the grade level goals. As shown in the chart, the goal for third grade students ranges between Level L and Level P. |
What do the reading levels mean?
You've probably heard your child's teacher mention their reading level. But what exactly does this mean? Reading levels help explain the level of a book that a child can independently read. There are specific behaviors demonstrated at each reading level. The document below explains what to expect from readers at each Fountas & Pinnell Reading Level.
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