How Is Diagnostic Testing Used in Reading?

Diagnostic testing focuses on remedial teaching.

Diagnostic testing for reading is used to identify skill deficits and plan remedial assistance. Reading teachers use a combination of formal and informal assessments, as well as observation, to get performance information that focuses instruction.

Word Analysis

Diagnostic testing includes assessment of word analysis because decoding is the foundation of reading skill. Testing in this area should evaluate the reader's phonemic awareness (understanding of sounds), phonics skills (sound-symbol correspondence), syllabication and awareness of morphemes (division of larger words into smaller parts). This information will focus instruction to help the student improve decoding skills.

Comprehension Skills

Reading is pointless without understanding, so diagnostic testing includes assessment of comprehension skills. The reader should be able to read grade-level text and respond to basic questions about the details of the content. Readers also must be able to find main ideas, make inferences, understand vocabulary, and evaluate the ideas in the text.

Fluency

Fluency is the ease with which the reader decodes the text. Diagnostic reading evaluation includes fluency assessment because non-fluent readers generally have decreased comprehension. Difficulty with sight word recognition, laborious phonics application, or problems with vocabulary can all contribute to lack of fluency.

References

• "Words Their Way: Word Study for Phonics, Vocabulary, and Spelling Instruction"; Donald R. Bear, Marcia Invernizzi, Shane Templeton, and Francine Johnston; 2008
• "Alternative Assessment Techniques for Reading and Writing"; Wilma H. Miller; 1995
• "Step-by-Step Assessment Guide to Code Breaking"; J. Richard Gentry; 2008

Resources

• Assessing Pupils' Progress (APP): Assessment Guidelines