RICA
There are two RICA assessment options:
RICA Video Performance Assessment
***Passing either assessment represents successful completion of the RICA requirement.
The RICA Written Examination consists of three subtests that, together, permit a broad and deep assessment of the candidate's knowledge about effective reading instruction in the five RICA domains and the candidate's ability to apply that knowledge.
Subtest I: 35 multiple-choice questions and 2 constructed-response questions
Subtest II: 35 multiple-choice questions and 2 constructed-response questions
Subtest III: 25 multiple-choice questions and 1 constructed-response question
Click here for more information on the RICA written.
The RICA Video Performance Assessment offers candidates the option of an evaluation based on actual classroom performance rather than a written examination. Candidates who choose the Video Performance Assessment create and submit video recordings of themselves teaching reading.
Submitted evidence includes 3 videos and accompanying templates , each of which consists of
an instructional context form
a 10-minute video recording
a reflection form
Click here for more information on the RICA Video Performance Assessment.
RICA Preparation (Online and self-paced, no instructor)
Overview
SDCOE, in collaboration with Point Loma Nazarene University, offers an online and self-paced review and preparation experience for teacher candidates before they take the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment® (RICA).
Helpful Links
Pearson Education RICA Homepage
CTC Exam Information
Gov. Newsom's Executive Order (May 29, 2020)
Who needs this preparation course?
The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing requires that all teacher candidates pass the RICA prior to being recommended for their preliminary credential. This preparation is a review of concepts and does not replace the preparation, or rich funds of knowledge offered through a teacher preparation reading course. This course is for you if some time has passed since you took your reading course, or you have taken the exam and have not passed.
Recommended Materials
Ready for RICA, by James Zarrillo, 4th Edition, is referred to during different sections of the preparation videos so you can go deeper on the topics you are less familiar with.
Case Studies in Preparation for the RICA, by Rossi and Schipper, is recommended only if you have already taken the test once and want a more intense, workbook style preparation.
You are encouraged to acquire one or both of these texts or use the text from your teacher preparation program reading course to go back and review each concept as it is addressed in the videos for further studying, if needed.
What does the course review?
The course reviews each competency assessed by the RICA in personal video style, a format where you can review and easily revisit each distinct topic:
Phonemic Awareness
Concepts About Print
Phonics
Fluency
Balanced Literacy
Vocabulary and Comprehension
Assessment
Each topic is approximately 30 minutes of direct instruction via video. We suggest you start and stop the video to review and study concepts as you need to, and individuals will spend varying amounts of time based on specific need. You will also gain test taking strategies and links to sign up for the test when ready.
What is the cost? The current course is being offered for free!
Register online for the free course.
Important: Upon registration, keep an eye out for the automatic email response that will include the RICA course URL. Save the URL for future access to the materials. (Best viewed in Firefox or Safari browsers; images may not show in Chrome.
