Jerry Johns Basic Reading Inventory

Summary

AI-generated from vendor-published content · May 23, 2026

This is a standardized informal reading assessment used by educators to determine a student's independent, instructional, and frustration reading levels — essentially figuring out what texts a student can handle with and without support. It evaluates both oral reading accuracy and listening comprehension through graded word lists and passages. APH's version is adapted for students with visual impairments or print disabilities, making it accessible in contexts where standard print assessments would be inappropriate. Teachers administering this to students with blindness or low vision should plan for some training time with the adapted format before the first assessment session.

What Setup Looks Like

• Out of the box
  Review the included scoring guides and passage materials to familiarize yourself with the assessment structure.
• With a guide
  
  1. Study the administration manual to understand how to score oral reading errors (miscues) and comprehension responses.
  2. Practice one or two sample passages before using with students — allow 30-60 minutes for this prep.
  3. See manufacturer support resources for detailed instructions.
• With professional help
  
  1. A reading specialist, teacher of the visually impaired (TVI), or special education teacher should administer and interpret results.
  2. Results should feed into IEP decisions about reading levels, text format accommodations, and instructional placement.

Where to Get It

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