Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) Practice Test

How should a teacher assess a student's knowledge of sight words in isolation?

1. Using running records

2. Through written essays

3. Utilizing flashcards

4. Conducting group discussions

The correct answer is: Utilizing flashcards

Assessing a student's knowledge of sight words in isolation is best accomplished through the use of flashcards. This method allows teachers to present words one at a time, helping to evaluate whether a student can recognize and read each word without contextual support. It isolates the focus on the sight word itself, minimizing the influence of surrounding text or cues, which can occur in other assessment methods. Using flashcards also allows for immediate feedback, where the teacher can see in real-time if the student struggles with a particular word or quickly recognizes it. This focused assessment is crucial in helping educators understand a student's level of proficiency with sight words, which are foundational for developing reading fluency. In contrast, methods like running records involve assessing reading accuracy and comprehension of connected text rather than isolated word recognition. Written essays and group discussions do not specifically measure sight word recognition but rather evaluate broader literacy skills and comprehension. Thus, flashcards are the most effective tool in this scenario for assessing knowledge of sight words in isolation.