[senco-forum] Tests for Reading Speed

Dear Helen,
                I have the Edinburgh and also use the WRAT-E ( the WRAT Expanded) it also has quite a lot of reading and is designed to be completed within 40 mins.It has 8 small pieces of writing followed by 5 multiple choice answers/questions.
     I'm not really happy with either test but they do measure silent reading which is what the boards want - as opposed to oral reading which is what a lot of tests measure and which doesn't mimic the silent reading they have to do in the exam.
    If your students find it offputting to have to read so much they may also read slowly and therefore not finish in the 40 mins therefore making the case for extra time clear cut.
    I used to use the  Vernon-Warden revised reading test by Robin Hedderley (available from the Dyslexic Institute) but was warned off this at one of the access arrangement assessment courses. I had used this in the past with students but not relying on it as a sole means of proof for extra time. I have never had any student complete it within 10 mins so am a bit sceptical of using it.
    I am still looking for a better test of silent reading and have't found anything that really gives you a measure in Standard Score/percentile/average - below average descriptors etc for the actual reading rate.
  Janet

helen clare <clarehelen at googlemail.com> wrote:
  Hi,
Can anyone suggest a reading speed/comprehension test suitable for using for
GCSE Access Arrangements?
I have always used the Edinburgh 4 test for this section on the form.
However, for a poor reader it is such a daunting task as there is so much
reading involved. I would be interested to hear what other teachers use and
if these tests are acceptable to the exam boards.
Thanks,
Clare