Off to a Slow Start: Profiles of Slow Readers in Second Grade

• In Event: Roundtable Session 43
  In Roundtable Session: Research on Reading Experiences of Elementary Students

Abstract

This study uses latent profile analysis to establish empirical profiles of slow readers in second grade. Using a state-wide database, slow readers were identified and grouped into four statistically significant profiles based on their word recognition, spelling, comprehension, and prosody scores: Profile 1, which demonstrated average scores for grade level, Profile 2, which demonstrated low prosody, Profile 3, which demonstrated low word recognition and spelling, and Profile 4, which demonstrated low word recognition, spelling, and prosody. These profiles were used to predict students’ scores on a state-wide standardized test of reading a year later, with significant results. Implications for research and practice are discussed.

Authors

• Laura Tortorelli, Michigan State University

• Marcia A. Invernizzi, University of Virginia