Text Complexity: Accurate Estimates and Educational Recommendations

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Abstract:

Summarizes a report by Nelson, Perfetti, Liben, and Liben (2012) that verified the validity of ATOS as a text complexity measure and established new Text Complexity Grade Bands as a pathway to college and career readiness for grades 1-12. Also reports findings from an internal analysis that used Accelerated Reader and Star Reading data from the 2009-2010 school year to compare the effects of reading below, within, and above the suggested guided independent reading ZPD ranges. Results indicated that most reading was done within the suggested ZPD range, which was associated with gains in Star Reading achievement across the school year. Reading above ZPD was rare, but beneficial, as long as students were able to pass Accelerated Reader quizzes. Implications and helpful tools for encouraging more sophisticated levels of text complexity in student reading are also discussed.

The full report is available online.

Publication Date:
02/22/2012

Updated: 10/10/2013



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