Reading Progress Indicator (RPI): know where every reader stands
An online assessment that measures a child's reading level in English across four skills.
What RPI is
RPI is an online assessment that measures a child's reading level in the English language.
What it measures
Phonological awareness
Hearing and working with the sounds in words.
Decoding
Turning letters into sounds and words.
Vocabulary
Knowing and using word meanings.
Comprehension
Understanding what is read.
Four assessment levels
Chosen by the grade entered for the student.
| Level | Grades |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | K to 1 |
| Level 2 | 2 to 3 |
| Level 3 | 4 to 6 |
| Level 4 | 7 to 13+ |
Taking the assessment and reading the scores
Not timed
The assessments are not timed, and students may finish over more than one sitting.
How scores are reported
As a grade equivalent (the grade level at which the child is actually reading) and a percentile score.
Why you can trust the scores
Built on a norming study
Scores come from a norming study by Bookette, in which RPI was given to a large sample of students from different ethnic backgrounds. Normalised scores were then developed from how those students performed.
Proven alongside global tests
Later research shows RPI scores correlate with internationally recognised assessments: Woodcock Johnson III, the Gates-MacGinitie Reading Tests and the Scholastic Reading Inventory. RPI also shows moderate to strong correlations with more than 20 other reading measures, including state tests in the USA.
Where it fits
RPI is the starting point of Spark's literacy programmes. Every student takes it first, and the result decides which programme and level the student begins in.
Important note
Spark Scientific Learning does not recommend that schools use RPI as a diagnostic tool, or as a placement tool within the school or class. RPI scores should not be interpreted in isolation, or used to make decisions about school or class placement, rewards, recognition or remediation.
FAQ
What does RPI measure?
Four skills that matter for reading in English: phonological awareness, decoding, vocabulary and comprehension.
Is RPI timed?
No. Students may finish over more than one sitting.
How are RPI scores reported?
As grade equivalents and percentile scores.
Is RPI a diagnostic tool?
Spark does not recommend using it as one, and its scores should not be used alone to make decisions.
Let's build skills that last
Tell us about your school, your teachers or your organisation, and we will suggest where to begin.