The assessment evaluates an educator’s knowledge and skills essential for teaching reading effectively. It examines comprehension of phonological and phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension strategies. A typical example includes questions that require the test-taker to identify correct decoding strategies or analyze passages for structural elements that impact comprehension.
Successful completion of such an assessment often serves as a benchmark for ensuring teachers possess the necessary expertise to promote literacy development in students. Historically, the rise of these tests corresponds with growing awareness of the science of reading and the need for evidence-based instructional practices. Passing demonstrates a commitment to utilizing methods aligned with research-backed approaches to reading instruction, which is expected to improve student outcomes.