One of the most frequent questions about implementing the science of reading is how do I know where my students are at to begin instruction? I will teach you just that in this post!
What is a phonics screener?
A phonics screener is an untimed diagnostic assessment that can easily identify students’ instructional needs for decoding. It is also an excellent tool for MTSS interventions and IEP goals.
How do I give a phonics screener?
Giving a phonics screener is easy but could be considered time consuming; as it must be administered one on one. However, the information it provides is worth the time it takes to give. Students have one page while the teacher has the scorning page. You need only one student page but a scoring page for every student. There are two versions included in the one I created. One is for first graders at the beginning of the year the other is designed for second grade and up.
What does it assess?
The screener assesses:
- Phonemic Awareness skills segmenting and blending.
- Letter Sounds
- Reading words in isolation
- Reading words in context
- Reading different syllable types and multisyllable words
- Reading words with prefixes
How to Use the Data Collected
After administering the screener you can use the data collected in a variety of ways. You can use the data to drive your instruction which is the most valuable thing any assessment can do. You can also use it to create IEP, MTSS, and intervention goals. It will also allow you to group students according to what they need next and provide small group instruction. It could also allow you to decide where to start your phonics instruction with your whole class. Finally, you can use it to report to stakeholders.
Are you ready to have a tool like this to use for your students? Grab it now HERE.
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