SkillScan Scoring System Guide

Overview

The SkillScan scoring system is designed to provide educators and specialists with a structured assessment of a student's performance in literacy screening. Scores are calculated based on responses to targeted questions across multiple screening domains.

Screening Domains

Phonological Awareness

Measures the student's ability to recognize and manipulate the sound structures of language, including rhyming, syllable segmentation, and phoneme awareness.

Letter-Sound Knowledge

Assesses familiarity with the alphabetic principle and the student's ability to associate letters with their corresponding sounds.

Word Reading Fluency

Evaluates how quickly and accurately a student can decode and read individual words, an indicator of reading automaticity.

Reading Comprehension

Measures the student's understanding of text content and ability to extract meaning from written material.

Spelling and Writing

Assesses phonetic and orthographic knowledge through spelling tasks and written expression capabilities.

Interpreting Results

Score Ranges

  • 80-100: Proficient — Student demonstrates strong skills in this domain.
  • 60-79: Developing — Student is making progress but may benefit from targeted support.
  • 40-59: At-Risk — Student shows significant difficulty; intervention is recommended.
  • Below 40: High Risk — Immediate assessment and specialized intervention are strongly recommended.

Important Disclaimers

  • ✓ Screening scores are informational only and should not be used as a standalone diagnostic tool.
  • ✓ Always follow up screening results with a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified specialist (psychologist, diagnostician, speech-language pathologist).
  • ✓ Factors such as cultural background, language exposure, and prior educational experience may influence scores.
  • ✓ Use SkillScan scores as a starting point for professional discussion and evidence-based decision-making.

Next Steps

After reviewing a student's SkillScan scores, consider:

  1. Consulting with the student's teacher(s) and family
  2. Comparing results with other classroom assessments and observations
  3. Referral to a specialist for formal diagnostic assessment if concerns are present
  4. Implementing targeted interventions based on identified areas of need
  5. Monitoring progress over time and reassessing periodically

For questions or concerns about your SkillScan assessment, please contact your school or district administrator.