A word about Reading Level:

Reading ability among children in the same grade varies greatly, as do the rating systems for reading level.  Each publisher uses a slightly different approach to determine reading level.

Reading Level indicators on books are good guidelines, but use your own judgement based on your knowledge of the child's abilities.  Look at the size of the print on the page, the length of the book, the number of sentences on each page.  Will your child feel overwhelmed by the book because of any of these factors?  It is important that reading be a fun experience, not a stressful one.

Also,  when selecting a book for a child who reads well above his/her grade level, please 

be sure to check the content or subject matter of the book before giving it to your child.  

Just because your child can read at a 6th grade level, doesn't mean he/she should be 

reading a book written for middle school students.

5 Word Method

When selecting a book for your child, especially primary students, have him/her read one page.  If there are more than 5 words that the child doesn't understand or recognize, that book is

a little too hard; choose an easier book.