In grades K-2 and sometimes in grade 3, students’ reading ability is assessed by using the Early Literacy Profile.  Each child is assessed individually several times each year.  While your child reads a book to the teacher, the teacher makes notes about your child’s fluency (ability to read words/sentences with ease) and then asks your child questions to determine your child’s ability to comprehend (understand) what he or she has read.  Your child will read books of increasing difficulty to the teacher so that the teacher can determine your child’s independent level (what he/she can read without adult assistance), instructional level (the level at which your child should be instructed) and the frustration level (the level that is too difficult and frustrating for your child to read).  Your child’s teacher can tell you what your child’s instructional level is and can show you if your child’s reading is below, at, or above expectations for your child’s grade level.