Each color-coded level reflects the National Standards for reading competence by grade level

Our Reading Specialists carefully analyze each book to determine its demands of the reader in each of the areas outlined by No Child Left Behind:

Phonemic Awareness Phonics Vocabulary Development Reading Fluency/Endurance Reading Comprehension

Our clear, yet comprehensive, Leveling System allows teachers to measure the reading level and progress of every student in relationship to these national standards—from Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade. As teachers and parents learn to identify students’ independent reading levels, they also learn what readers need to focus on to improve in each of the above areas of reading acquisition.

The 100 Book Challenge Leveling System connects national reading standards with local understanding. For example, first-grade students who can independently read the 100 Book Challenge books bearing a 2-Blue sticker are reading on grade level and are in good reading shape--- whether they reside in Philadelphia, Hilton Head or the Yakima Indian Reservation. As students select from higher baskets, everyone can see progress as related to grade-level expectations.