Independent and Instructional Levels
Based on discussions with teachers, we want to find and record both the Independent and instructional
levels.
Note that independent and instructional levels are the highest, which means when a student
successfully reads a book, you may have to move up a level to see if the higher level can be read
successfully. For example:
1. Student read level E with 97% accuracy and Satisfactory comprehension – Independent level
2. Two options after reading Level F
a. Might also be Independent level which means read level G to find Instructional
b. Might be Instructional level which means you should confirm that by reading level G
3. Always use your professional judgment and your increasing knowledge of the levels. You may
choose to skip 2 or more levels. You know when to stop without having to double check. You
are free to make those decisions because it is a bit of a fluid process.
Chart D is crucial in the process of determining level.
Levels A-K
Accuracy
95-100%
90-94%
Below 90%
Comprehension
Excellent 6-7
Independent
Instructional
Frustrational
Satisfactory 5
Independent
Instructional
Frustrational
Excellent 6-7
Independent
Instructional
Frustrational
Satisfactory 5
Independent
Instructional
Frustrational
Levels A-K
Accuracy
95-100%
90-94%
Below 90%
Limited 4
Instructional
Frustrational
Frustrational
Unsatisfactory 1-3
Frustrational
Frustrational
Frustrational
Comprehension
Limited 4
Instructional
Frustrational
Frustrational
Unsatisfactory 1-3
Frustrational
Frustrational
Frustrational
Also see Figure 2.21 on page 32 of Assessment Guide, Kit 1
Independent Level
 The highest level at which a student can read independently
 Level used for independent reading practice– ‘Good Fit’ books
 Both accuracy and comprehension are strong
Instructional level
 Highest level at which a student can read with good opportunities for learning through teaching
 Level used for instruction and guided reading
 Accuracy lower and good comprehension OR strong accuracy with weak comprehension.
Frustrational Level
 The level where student needs constant support to read
 Level used only when student is highly motivated to read the text
 Both accuracy and comprehension are weak