What tools does LETRS recommend for evaluating literacy development?

The recommendation to include formal assessments, informal observations, and diagnostic tools is grounded in a comprehensive approach to evaluating literacy development. Formal assessments provide standardized metrics that can help measure student performance against benchmarks and track progress over time. These assessments are backed by research and are often used to assess overall literacy skills and identify students who may need additional support.

Informal observations contribute a qualitative perspective, allowing educators to see how students interact with texts and apply their reading skills in real-time situations. This type of assessment can uncover insights into student behaviors, engagement, and the learning environment that standardized tests may miss.

Diagnostic tools are specifically designed to identify a student's strengths and weaknesses in literacy. They offer detailed information about specific skill gaps, which can guide instruction to meet the diverse needs of learners.

Combining these three approaches provides a richer, more informed view of a student's literacy development, enabling educators to tailor their instruction effectively and support each student's growth in reading and writing.