S.P.I.R.E. Placement Test


What is the S.P.I.R.E. Placement Test?

The S.P.I.R.E. Placement Test is an assessment tool used to determine the appropriate starting level for students in the S.P.I.R.E. reading intervention program. It is not tied to grade level but evaluates decoding skills to ensure each student begins instruction optimally. The complete Placement Test Pack PDF can be accessed here: Placement Test for detailed administration instructions.

 

Test Format Options

  • Print: Administer the test one-on-one using the student test pages and recording forms found in the Placement Test Pack PDF

  • Online: Administer the test electronically, following the prompts within the online platform

 

Key Features

  • Part A assesses knowledge of phonograms (letter names and sounds)

  • Part B uses word lists organized by S.P.I.R.E. level to evaluate decoding abilities

  • Placement is determined by the number of errors made in each section

  • Detailed instructions, a placement schedule, and recording forms are included in the Placement Test Pack PDF

Benefits

  • Efficient way to assess decoding skills for appropriate program placement

  • Can be administered in 10-15 minutes per student

  • Allows for targeted instruction by pinpointing the optimal starting level

  • The online option provides automated scoring and placement recommendations

 

Complementary Resources

  • S.P.I.R.E. Initial Placement Assessment: Offers a more extensive diagnostic tool if needed

  • S.P.I.R.E. Teacher's Guide: Guides interpreting placement test results

  • Sounds Sensible program: Targets phonological awareness gaps identified in Part A

Contact your S.P.I.R.E. program coordinator for more information on how the Placement Test fits into the overall S.P.I.R.E. assessment and instruction process.


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