The Power of Leveling

(Source)

If you walk into any elementary classroom you are bound to find books with a number on the binding or the cover. The number represents the reading level of the book. The reading level of the book is determined by observing a number of factors through a process called leveling. Leveling is an important aspect for reading education because it allows teachers to assign appropriate reading material to students. Without this process teachers would have to use their own judgement when selecting reading material for their classroom.

Edward Fry's article discusses the details of readability and leveling. I was unaware of how much time and effort is required to categorize books into reading levels. I was also unaware of the differences between leveling and readability. I assumed that both processes would produce similar outcomes but the reading levels are often quite different. Readability formulas are objective and can be executed by computers. On the other hand, leveling formulas are less objective and cannot be completed by computers. The result of a readability formula is a wide range reading level while leveling produces a specific grade level. Since leveling produces a specific grade level it is only used in elementary grades.

As I read the article on the readability and leveling I thought of how much teachers and students depend on leveling. Reading levels are used on a daily basis by teachers to give their students a selection of reading material best suited to their reading capabilities. Students use their reading levels as a guide when they select material in the classroom or on their own so they know they can read and comprehend the text.

I begin to think more about the role that leveling plays in a classroom. I realized that leveling is more than a placement tool for teachers and students. Reading levels can serve as a motivational tool for students. The last time I babysat a fourth grade student she could not stop talking about her recent reading level achievement. She had climbed to a 7th grade reading level and could not wait to climb another level.  I think this is important to know that reading levels can be used for more than their typical purpose. Reading levels can be used to motivate your students to achieve and excel in reading.

Questions

• Do you agree that reading levels can be used to motivate students to excel in reading?
• What role did reading levels play in your elementary classes?