Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) Practice Test

When assessing fluency, which method measures words correct per minute?

1. Running record

2. Timed readings

3. Reading comprehension test

4. Oral reading sample

The correct answer is: Timed readings

The method that effectively measures words correct per minute is timed readings. This approach involves having a student read a passage within a specific time frame, typically one minute, and calculating the number of words they read accurately during that time. This method provides a clear metric of fluency, as it quantifies not only how many words are read but also how accurately they are articulated, which is critical for gauging a student's reading proficiency and speed. Timed readings are focused directly on fluency, which encompasses speed, accuracy, and expression. Other methods mentioned, such as running records, oral reading samples, and reading comprehension tests, serve different purposes. For instance, running records assess both accuracy and comprehension over longer passages, while reading comprehension tests evaluate a student's understanding of a text rather than their reading fluency. Oral reading samples can observe fluency but might not quantify it in the same standardized way as timed readings do. Therefore, timed readings stand out as the specific method designed to measure fluency through the calculation of words correct per minute.