The Foundations of Reading Test includes two open-response (constructed response) written assignments worth 20% of your total score (10% each). These assignments present a classroom scenario with student data or artifacts and ask you to analyze student reading performance, identify strengths and needs, and recommend evidence-based instructional strategies. Strong responses are well-organized, cite specific evidence from the provided materials, and demonstrate deep knowledge of reading development and instruction.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Open-Response Item | A test question that requires a written analysis rather than selecting from multiple-choice options |
| Scoring Rubric | A set of criteria and performance levels used to evaluate the quality of a written response |
| Evidence-Based Strategy | An instructional approach supported by research demonstrating its effectiveness for student learning |
| Rationale | The explanation of why a chosen strategy is appropriate and how it addresses the identified student need |
Study Tip
The biggest mistake on CR items is being too vague. Instead of writing "the teacher should provide more support," write "the teacher should implement repeated reading with a fluency passage at the student's instructional level, having the student reread the same text 3-4 times while tracking words correct per minute to build automaticity." Specificity is what earns a 4.
Our study guide covers all 11 objectives in depth, and our practice test lets you apply what you've learned.