Q: Are there going to be more ORF passages?
A: Yes! To start with we've provided passages that coincide with the goal for the end of each trimester at each grade level. We'll be filling in the gaps some time this year. However, as all the passages do come from Benchmark Advance/Adelante you are welcome to use your Reading Foundational Skills testing book to select additional passages. They won't be in the same format, but they should help you gauge if your student is falling into an area not represented in the spiral-bound book passages (ie. Levels K or H).
Q: What do I enter in IO for my students' ORF reading level?
A: Because IO would not take letters (they are working on it!) we had to convert the reading levels to numbers. For example Emergent 1 (Level A) is entered as the number 1 and level Z is entered as the number 26. There is a table in your spiral booklet that tells you which letters correspond to which numbers.
Q: How can I find my RI "Reading Inventory" results?
A: Good news! Teachers now have their own IO accounts and will be able to run reports soon. More info coming!!
Q: Should I use RI results to make my reading groups?
A: Please do not use RI levels to make reading groups for your class - it can be a starting place for your higher groups but is not the best measure for anyone scoring at or below grade level. After you finish ORFing anyone below grade level, you'll have a better indication of the specific needs of your students. Some students will test much higher when they sit down face to face with you to read.
Q: How can I teach writing with Benchmark?
A: This is a larger question than just a few sentences...But to start with remember that each unit comes with 3 prompts. Consider choosing one of the prompts (based on student needs and/or choice) to take through the writing process and really focus on. The other two can be for discrete practice in group and independent writing time. The following website has some good information on the break-down of the Benchmark writing components: https://markersandminions.com/writing-with-benchmark-advance/