1-Minute Reading Test: A Simple yet Effective Way to Assess Your Child's Reading Skills

As a parent, it's natural to be concerned about your child's reading abilities. One way to get an idea of their skills is by administering a simple one-minute reading test. This test is designed to give you a quick and accurate snapshot of your child's reading proficiency.

Here's how the test works: Print out two copies of the sample reading passage, which can be found online or through educational resources. Give one copy to your child and ask them to read it as quickly and carefully as possible. Meanwhile, use the other copy to keep track of their progress.

To calculate the number of words read correctly, simply subtract the total number of errors from the total number of words read in one minute. If your child reverses the word order, scores 1 (one) error. Similarly, if they insert a word, omit a line, or struggle with a word, score 1 (one) error.

It's also important to note that you should wait three seconds before telling your child the correct word if they stop or struggle with it. This will help you get an accurate count of their reading errors.

Once your child has finished reading, mark the last word read and tell them they can stop. Using a stopwatch or a wristwatch with a second hand, begin timing when your child says the first word in the passage. Record their progress as they read.

After the test is complete, you'll want to get back to the results via email by sending an email to stating the total number of words your child read correctly in one minute and the year and term they are currently in at school.

By administering this simple 1-minute reading test, you'll be able to get a better understanding of your child's reading abilities and whether or not formal assessment is recommended. So why not give it a try? It's a quick and easy way to gauge your child's progress and identify areas where they may need extra support.

1 minute reading test