Determining the Readability of a Text

Readability is based on the number of multi-syllabic words and the length of sentences. Therefore, bigger words and longer sentences make for a more difficult and challenging text.

Many school libraries label their books by reading level or have them coded for computer programs, such as “Accelerated Reader” or “Reading Counts!.” The advantage is that once a student’s reading level has been determined, he or she can choose to read any book in the library at his or her reading ability. Freedom to select more advanced books on preferred subjects helps motivate students to read, and improves their reading ability. Children who like to read will become good at it. Children should be encouraged to share books they find interesting with their peers and spread the joy of reading.

According to Fry in Elementary Reading Instruction (as cited in Kathy Schrock's Guide for Educators, n.d.), to determine the readability of a text,you need to:

• "Randomly select three 100-word passages from a book or an article.

• Plot the average number of syllables and the average number of sentences per 100 words on the graph to determine the grade level of the material (Fry, 1977)."

For more detail about using this method, please read Fry Readability Formula: An Overview (also found in the Resources section).