New test will better measure Idaho students’ reading skills

istation-test

Idaho students in kindergarten through third grade are gearing up to take a new reading test designed to feel like a computer game.

The Istation’s Indicators of Progress Early Reading test is replacing the old Idaho Reading Indicator. The computer-based test will roll out statewide this fall, but some schools piloted the test last school year.

Studies show that students who aren’t reading at their grade level by third grade are more likely to struggle in middle school and high school.

The new test measures performance in six areas of literacy while the old test only measures reading speed. Students will take the test in September and again in May. Schools can also choose to test students monthly.

Since the tests are computer-based they take less instructional time, whereas the old test required students to be pulled out of class one-by-one to test in person.

Previously, testing would take about a month. Now, students can complete the testing in four or five days. (AP)

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