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Discover The Kessler School

The Kessler School’s approach to instruction aims to prepare students for any educational challenge they may face in the future. By providing a tailored instructional model for each child, our goal is to foster confidence and creativity as a platform for their success.

TKS is a "Workshop" school. We follow the workshop model for teaching reading, writing, and phonics based on the incredible work of Lucy Calkins and the Reading and Writing Project from Teachers College at Columbia University. Every classroom from kindergarten to middle school follows this same model of instruction providing routine and consistent expectations throughout the school.The workshop model for literacy instruction focuses on time, volume, and choice. Students need extended periods of time with their eyes on print to become better readers and with pencils in hand to become better writers. Students in every classroom learn to become goal-oriented where they set their own reading and writing goals for volume and learn to self-regulate their own reading lives. Finally, the element of student choice provides autonomy children thrive on to flourish.

Fountas & Pinnell Assessments and Reading Levels FAQ

What do teachers use to assess the reading levels of students?

What information does this assessment provide?

This test provides information on the reader's accuracy, fluency, and comprehension. This allows teachers to determine both a student's independent and instructional reading level. Fountas & Pinnell levels (also known as guided reading levels) are rated on an A to Z gradient. Each grade level has a range of levels that you would expect a reader to proceed through during the year, with A as the starting kindergarten level and Z being a middle school level.

What's the difference between independent and instructional reading levels?

An independent reading level is when the reader knows most of the words and can comprehend the text without too much difficulty. A book at the independent level is often referred to as a "just right" book. These books help students become better readers through ample practice. An independent level book should sound smooth when read aloud and feel comfortable to read.

A book at an instructional reading level is more challenging for the reader, but is not too hard. A book at this level is right on the edge of the child's learning. Teachers use sets of guided reading books to support small groups of students in reading at their instructional level.

Why was this assessment selected?

Is it important for parents to check the reading level of each book a child reads?

A "Just Right" book is one you are interested in and that you can read accurately, fluently, and with good comprehension.

I-PICK

Purpose- I have a reason to read this book.

Interest- I am really interested in this topic, story, or author!

Comprehension- I understand the text and can retell it (story elements, big ideas, and supporting details).

Know- I know almost every word and I can read it smoothly and with expression.

Sometimes a student might be very interested in reading a book but it is too difficult. That book might be a good one to read aloud to the child or a parent/teacher can provide an alternative way to access the book, such as through an audio recording or interactive read aloud online. With continued progress, a book that was too hard at one time will eventually become one that the student can read independently!

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