Tera Test Results - Grade Equivalents?

Mom on the Go,

I am a third grade teacher with a masters in reading and diagnostic literacy, therefore I am quite familiar with scores being reported using a decimal point. Typically if a result is given without an additional key to help determine the results, they are using "grade equivalent" scoring. Thus meaning just as you said for K.4; kindergarten in the 4th month. With most standardized tests, this means scores are "normed" against other kindergarteners who have taken the test across the country. So they use that data to determine where within the grade level your child has performed.

In my opinion, I don't like using those kinds of tests to determine achievement. I think a test given for a short period of time on one day may not be a clear picture of your child's performance. A portfolio of progress using multiple types of assessments is the best way to really determine your child's reading achievement. Realistically, a test where a child colors in bubbles can have false scores just because the child didn't erase a smudge correctly. Another personal opinion: Those types of tests are NOT good at distinguishing the different parts of "reading." To say her "reading" level is K.4 doesn't really help anyone! You shouldn't be too concerend. I'd ask about her phonemic awareness skills, phonics blending and decoding skills, comprehension skills, and vocabulary development at the kindergarten level.

I hope this helps!

Grade equivvalent scores arethe least reliable scores. I would suggest looking at percentile or stanine scores that are easier to interpret and more accurate.

When test give a grade equivalent score of K.4 it means kindergarten 4th month. I wish the schools in CPS still used grade equivalent scores. As a teacher it would be a lot easier to explain to children as well as their parents.

Sounds like she tested out as a kindergarten 4th month. BUT dont rely too much on these scores, as some kids just dont test well. My middle daughter is a strait A high honor roll student, who tests out as your basic slug would. she doesnt test well. period.
look at the overall rating, to see where she tested as compared to other kids her age. also look at her report card....is something low there? did the teacher make recomendations, or is there something she really struggled with?
Work on everything with her over the summer. Wal Mart has some great work books that help. Grab the K-1 & 2nd grade ones. Let her start with K then move on up....obviously if you get to the 2nd grade books, she may struggle, BUT it also gives her a head start. I suggest one for math and one for reading, a page a day.....unless she wants to do more. (my 7 year old LOVES these workbook activities and finsihed her last one in less than a week...its fun to her)

just make sure to make it FUN for her, so she doesnt end up hating the process and hating school in the future.
Good Luck!

thanks for posting this question. Our school doesn't use this method, so I googled it and learned some new things. Glad you got your answer!

As a teacher, I would recommend that you contact the school to help with interpretation of the scores. Based on what you have said, it sounds like he is reading at grade level. However, not being familiar with the specific test you are talking about or how they score them, I am of little help in interpreting the scores.

Hi,

I would have to look at it, but usually when they test gives information in decimal form like that it can mean that. I am familiar with Tera but, I would have to see where on the test report is coming from because it could be just identifying the doucment. If you can scan it and send it to ____@____.com I will look at it and get back to you.

L.

L.

You could contact Pearson, the company that makes/sells this particular test. Customer Relations: 800-627-7271 (7 AM-6 PM CST)
I would definitely want to know right away because IF your child is at Kindergarten month 4, she might run into difficulties in 1st grade. You could also call the school. The secretary won't know but the principal or counselor might be able to get that info for you. They usually work during the summer. As a teacher, I suggest that you contact both Pearson and the school to see if they give you the same answers. Good luck!

Yes, it means kindergarten, 4th month-