How can an instructional level text be found?

An instructional level text can be effectively identified through the use of a running record. A running record is a tool that allows educators to assess a student's reading skills and to gauge their fluency, accuracy, and comprehension as they read. By utilizing this method, teachers can observe a student in action, note their strengths and areas for improvement, and determine the appropriate text level that would be both challenging and accessible for the student.

This approach is more reliable than using a standardized test, as it provides real-time insights into the student's reading abilities within the context of authentic reading. It also surpasses the idea of guessing a student’s capability, as it is based on observations and data collected from the student’s actual reading performance rather than assumptions. Using a set reading list may not accurately reflect a student’s individual needs or levels, as not all students will respond to texts in the same manner based on their unique skills and experiences. Thus, taking a running record is a targeted strategy to pinpoint the instructional level at which a student can learn most effectively.