NES Special Education Practice Exam

When assessing a student's reading level based on their performance, the number of misread words over a specific text length is crucial. In this scenario, the student misread 35 words in a 500-word text.

To determine the reading level, we often look at the percentage of words read correctly. The calculation here involves determining the number of correct words. If the student misread 35 words, they correctly read 465 words (500 - 35 = 465).

Next, we calculate the accuracy rate:

465 correct words divided by 500 total words equals an accuracy rate of 93%.

Typically, reading levels are interpreted in the following manner based on correct reading rates:

- Independent level: 95%-100% correct

- Instructional level: 90%-94% correct

- Frustrational level: below 90% correct

Given the calculation of 93%, this places the student's reading accurately within the instructional level range. This is the level where students can read texts with some assistance and still comprehend the material effectively. They are challenged, yet not overwhelmed, allowing for guided support when needed.

Thus, interpreting the student’s reading level as instructional is appropriate based on the percentage of accurate reading.