Introducing Benchmark Reading Assessment: LKDSB

To support the development of a student's reading, teachers often use a standardized assessment (like DRA) to learn more about the student's strengths and the reading behaviors and understandings that require more support.

NEW

The Benchmark Assessment System will be available as an assessment tool for LKDSB teachers in the Fall of 2021. Teachers will be able to choose the tool for reading assessments.  (DRA or Benchmark)

Benchmark Assessments are administered as one-to-one, student-teacher reading assessment conferences. 

There are three components to the Benchmark Reading Assessment

• Oral Reading,
• Comprehension Conversation, and
• optional Writing about Reading task.

The process is repeated until the teacher determines the text levels the are independent, instructional, and hard for the student. (Fountas and Pinnell Text Levels)

In addition to determining the text levels, the teacher will learn about the student's Thinking Within the Text, Thinking Beyond the Text, and Thinking About the Text.

The Fountas and Pinnell Literacy Continuum, found in the Benchmark Kits, is an excellent resource for planning, teaching, and determining a student's next steps.

"Behaviors and Understandings to Notice, Teach, and Support"

View this video for an introduction to The Benchmark Assessment System: BAS

Additional "Learning about Benchmark Reading Assessment" resources will be shared soon.