New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

What is the primary method for identifying students who have not met literacy standards?

1. Standardized testing alone

2. Informal assessments and early screening

3. Parent-teacher meetings

4. Year-end evaluations

The correct answer is: Informal assessments and early screening

The primary method for identifying students who have not met literacy standards is through informal assessments and early screening. This approach is effective because it allows educators to gather multiple data points on a student’s reading and literacy skills, often before the end of the school year. Informal assessments can include observations, running records, and various one-on-one evaluations that give a clearer picture of a student's abilities and challenges. Early screening, on the other hand, is crucial for identifying potential literacy issues before they become significant obstacles to learning. By using tools and techniques that assess students at various points throughout the academic year, educators can intervene early, providing targeted support and instructional strategies tailored to the individual needs of each student. In contrast, relying solely on standardized testing does not provide the comprehensive insights that informal assessments can offer. Standardized tests typically evaluate a student's performance at one point in time and may not account for the nuances of a student’s understanding or progress. Parent-teacher meetings are valuable for building relationships and discussing a student's overall progress but do not replace systematic identification methods. Year-end evaluations, while useful for assessing overall performance, may miss earlier signs of struggle that could be addressed promptly. Thus, the combination of informal assessments and early screening represents a proactive and thorough strategy for identifying