Assessment Philosophy
Renaissance Learning, Inc. develops three types of progress-monitoring assessments, or "Tiers", into which most of the software created by the company fits. The company's pyramidal logo is a metaphor for the purpose and use of its software.
- Tier 1: Daily progress monitoring
"Tier 1" assessments are daily progress-monitoring assessments, which are designed to monitor skills practice and provide feedback on the impact of instruction. This software provides the most information, often on a daily basis; thus, this tier is larger than the others. For example, Accelerated Reader monitors reading practice and provides information on how well students are reading. Tier 1 software includes Accelerated Reader, Accelerated Math, Accelerated Vocabulary, Accelerated Grammar & Spelling, and Accelerated Writer.
- Tier 2: Periodic progress monitoring
"Tier 2" assessments are periodic progress-monitoring assessments designed to provide information about student achievement two to ten times per year with at least monthly intervals. These assessments fit between daily and high-stakes annual tests (Tier 3). Tier 2 software includes STAR Reading, STAR Math, and STAR Early Literacy. (See STAR (software) for an overview of the STAR Assessments.)
- Tier 3: Annual high-stakes tests
"Tier 3" assessments are high-stakes assessments, such as state tests. Although the company provides a Tier 3-type assessment, AssessmentMaster,* Tier 3 assessments are usually state tests not provided by RLI.
Read more about this topic: Renaissance Learning
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