IRA WEBSITE #6: READ THEORY

 

- ReadTheory -

        ReadTheory [https://readtheory.org/] is a K-12 online reading comprehension program that assesses reading ability and builds reading comprehension by providing texts for students to read at a "just right" level. There are informational and narrative passages leveled by grade and Lexile level. The quizzes assess and adjust passages to target student need. To begin, teachers create a free account and then create a new class (which can support a maximum of 35 student accounts). Students log in (providing their teacher's email so that they can be added to the class) and take a 20 minute pretest on vocabulary questions, and reading comprehension questions. This pretest establishes a student's initial reading level and reading comprehension abilities. After the pretest, students then work through passages and quizzes tailored to their level. Teachers monitor progress on the Progress Reports page, which shows data based on reading level progression as well as performance on each of the ELA Common Core-aligned reading comprehension question types. Unfortunately, lessons aren't provided on ReadTheory, but teachers can check out an associated site for those materials. ReadTheory does provide a limited list of free printables, great for RTI or other reading interventions.

The goal of ReadTheory is to address discouraged and frustrated readers by helping teachers assess students' reading abilities, so that teachers can better connect them to relevant reading activities. ReadTheory makes differentiation easier for a classroom of students. It is useful and time-saving, especially the data teachers get on each student. Some quiz questions are a bit challenging, but students receive feedback including explanations for any wrong answers. The passages and questions provided are similar to those students may encounter on standardized tests, which makes this a particularly great resource for test prep but not so much for engaging students or developing reading habits.

 

The design of the platform is a test-like format and is not an engaging way to read, support student choice or creativity. There is an option to choose a larger text size, and students can work at their own pace. Students are encouraged to read to earn Knowledge Points, which they receive for answering questions correctly, answering challenge questions, and completing written response questions that are then graded by their teacher. The directions are easy to follow, and students see correct answers and explanations when they answer incorrectly. The teacher dashboard provides useful reports and worksheets for extension. ReadTheory is a good tool to use for assessing, monitoring, or as a supplement to your existing reading program.