New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

How do informal reading inventories contribute to literacy assessment?

1. They measure only spelling accuracy

2. They provide a detailed analysis of vocabulary acquisition

3. They allow teachers to note errors and plan instruction

4. They assess students' written language skills

The correct answer is: They allow teachers to note errors and plan instruction

Informal reading inventories are valuable tools in literacy assessment because they allow teachers to observe and record a student's reading behaviors, including errors made during reading. By analyzing these errors, teachers can gain insights into the student's reading processes, such as phonemic awareness, decoding strategies, and comprehension skills. This information becomes critical for planning individualized instruction that targets specific areas where the student may be struggling. Furthermore, the detailed data collected from these inventories can help teachers identify trends in performance, which informs instructional adjustments that cater to different learning needs. This targeted approach fosters a more effective learning environment, enhancing student literacy development over time.