What is a key characteristic of the instructional level in reading assessments?

A key characteristic of the instructional level in reading assessments is that students can read with some assistance and understand the text. At this level, the text is at an appropriate difficulty for the student, meaning they have a good chance of grasping the content with guidance. This assistance might take the form of supportive teaching strategies, prompting questions, or clarifying difficult terms. Such support is crucial as it allows students to engage with the material actively, thereby developing their reading skills and comprehension further.

This level is significant in educational settings as it helps educators determine appropriate teaching strategies that can foster a student's growth in reading. Understanding the balance between challenge and support is vital to effectively promoting literacy skills in learners.