Mrs. Gilmer's 2nd Grade Class

BAS

(Benchmark Assessment System)

 

What is the BAS?

The Benchmark Assessment System or BAS is a one-on-one test to determine both a student's independent and instructional reading level.

 

 

What is the difference between instructional and independent reading levels?

An independent reading level indicates that a student is able to fluently read and write at a specific level without support. An instructional level reveals a need for support in either reading fluency, oral or written comprehension (depending on the level), or both. Students should use their independent reading level to select books they will be reading on their own. Educators and parents should use students' instructional reading levels to teach new skills, so they may offer support and help students to grow as readers.

 

Why are students at Quest tested to frustration?

Typically, the BAS ends when the first instructional level is reached, but students who are gifted or high potential learners should be tested beyond that initial level in order to remove the ceiling. Students who are gifted are often able to be instructed at levels far beyond their first instructional level and should be challenged at their highest possible ability level. At Quest we test until a student is no longer able to pass in order to find their most authentic instructional reading level.

 

What does the BAS level (letter) mean?

Reading levels are reported in the form of a letter and are correlated with typical grade level ability. Please click here to view a correlation chart. To be proficient or advanced, students should be reading independently at or beyond the average grade level score.

 

When are BAS levels updated?/When are students tested?

The BAS is administered at the beginning of each school year to all students. An optional mid-year assessment will be given to select students. All students will receive frequent informal monitoring through the use of running records and small group observations and these results will provide evidence for a need to formally assess. A final BAS will be given at the end of the school year to measure overall growth. BAS levels will be recorded on report cards first and fourth quarter for all students and every quarter a student is not at grade level. 

 

How will I know if a book is at my child's level?

Most books will have a reading level marked on the inside cover or back of the book. Some books will be coded by letters similar to the BAS while others simply list grade levels, DRA2 levels, or lexile levels.  Use your child's BAS level to help you find a book at or slightly above their reading level, but keep in mind that as reading levels increase content may become less appropriate for younger students. Finding books suitable for young fluent readers becomes a difficult task, but seemingly less complex reading material may offer a challenge if appropriate comprehension questions are asked. Try to have your child think deeply about all text they encounter by asking them questions about their reading or having them write about reading. For a list of comprehension questions or reading activities to help support your child please visit the "Resources" tab and click through the various reading resources. 

 

The following websites may help you find reading material for your child:

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https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/bookwizard/

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http://www.elstempe.org/home/140005194/140006021/Grade_Three_DRA_List.pdf

 

http://wces.ucps.k12.nc.us/php/DRA_list.htm

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What if my child can independently read at the maximum level of the assessment?

If your child is reading at a level Z (eighth grade) independently , he or she will begin taking another assessment to accommodate his or her ability in order to measure continual growth.

 

What if my child is reading below grade level?

Students who are not at grade level will receive extra reading support in the form of small group instruction. If a student does not show growth they may be started on MTSS (Multi-Tiered Support System) which is a form of documentation to ensure students receive services they need in order to be successful. Students who are significantly below grade level may be placed on a READ Plan.  A READ Plan is an individualized route that involves additional and more frequent support and assessment in order to help students make gains in reading.

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