Reading assessments in the classroom

I was reminded today as I read Chapters 1 and 2 of the important role of a reading teacher. Our assessment must be carefully taken and we then need to use that information to best meet the needs of our students. My class of 28 came to me from various school settings and homes. We do placement tests to best place them into small groups were they can be matched best with reading material that suits their level of reading. I have already started to collect information for their portfolio and I use rubrics to measure and observe my students' performance. We wait patiently for school records to arrive so we can better meet our students needs. Once a course of instruction is chosen then I will give monitoring assessments. I like to collaborate and share results with other teachers. It is a team effort to meet the needs of my students. Parents are also a part of the progress as they read at home with their child.

Chapter 2 focused on the levels of reading ability. I wish my all my students were at the independent level where they can read easily but the truth remains they are not. There are four ability levels. I realized two students were at at the frustration level with reading. Expressions on faces during reading group showed that the reading level was too difficult and after class I spoke with my students reassuring them that I would be placing them in groups matching ability level. I am ready for a challenge.