This section of the Written
Examination includes two types of assignments for which
candidates have to write a response.
Focused Educational
Problems and Instructional Tasks.
These assignments present problems and tasks in educational
contexts and require candidates to consider information
about a class, a group of students, an individual
student, or an instructional situation and to devise
or provide explanations related to appropriate instructional
strategies or assessment approaches. Four focused
educational problems and instructional tasks are included
on the exam. Each assesses one or more competencies
in one domain of the
RICA Content Specifications, and there is one
problem or task for each domain. The assignments for
Domains I and IV each require a written response of
approximately 50 words. Those for Domains II and III
each require a written response of approximately 150
words.
Case Study.
For the case study, candidates
receive substantial background information about a
student and samples of materials illustrating the
student’s reading performance. Candidates are
asked to assess the student’s reading performance,
describe appropriate instructional strategies, and
explain why those strategies would be effective. The
exam includes one case study, which includes content
related to all four domains of the RICA Content Specifications
and requires a written response of approximately 300
words.
Each assignment should
be read carefully to ensure that all aspects of the
assignment are addressed. Written responses are evaluated
based on the extent to which they demonstrate knowledge
and skills important for effective delivery of a balanced,
comprehensive reading program. Responses to the assignments
on the Written Examination are evaluated based on the
following criteria:
Purpose:
The candidate demonstrates an understanding of the
relevant content and pedagogical knowledge by fulfilling
the purpose of the assignment.:
The candidate demonstrates an understanding of the
relevant content and pedagogical knowledge by fulfilling
the purpose of the assignment.
Application
of Content: The candidate
accurately and effectively applies the relevant content
and pedagogical knowledge.:
The candidate accurately and effectively applies the
relevant content and pedagogical knowledge.
Support:
The candidate supports the response with appropriate
examples, evidence, and rationales based on the relevant
content and pedagogical knowledge.:
The candidate supports the response with appropriate
examples, evidence, and rationales based on the relevant
content and pedagogical knowledge.
The assignments are intended
to assess knowledge and skills of reading instruction,
not writing ability. Responses, however, must be communicated
clearly enough to permit a valid judgment of the candidate's
knowledge and skills. Responses should be written for
an audience of educators knowledgeable about reading
instruction.
Sample Constructed-Response
Assignments:
Sample
Multiple-Choice Questions
Return to RICA Sample Items Table of Contents
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