How does Standard 1 guide the use of informal reading inventories?

• A. As diagnostic tools to identify strengths and gaps, inform grouping, and tailor instruction; use results to set goals.
• B. As the sole basis for grade-level promotion.
• C. As a substitute for formal assessments.
• D. To replace all formal assessments.

Answer: (A)

Informal reading inventories are used as formative tools to understand a student’s reading strengths and gaps, and to tailor instruction accordingly. They help you group students flexibly for targeted teaching and to set specific, measurable goals based on what the student can do and what they need to improve. The data from an IRI guide decisions about what to teach next, how to scaffold instruction, and how to monitor progress over time, all within a balanced assessment system that also includes formal measures.

Using an IRI as the sole basis for promotion or as a substitute for formal assessments would not capture the full picture of a student’s reading abilities or growth. It’s important to view IRIs as one piece of the evidence you gather to inform instruction, not as the entire decision-making tool.