Star Reading Test Score Chart 2023 PDF: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide details the 2023 STAR Reading assessments, focusing on Functional Grade Levels (FGL) – a classification of student performance against Common Core standards.

Understanding STAR Reading Enterprise
STAR Reading Enterprise is a widely utilized assessment tool designed to evaluate reading comprehension and skills across K-12 students. It provides educators with valuable data to inform instructional decisions and monitor student progress throughout the academic year. The system dynamically adjusts to each student’s ability level, presenting questions of appropriate difficulty to accurately gauge their reading proficiency.
A key component of STAR Reading Enterprise is the introduction of Functional Grade Levels (FGL). This concept moves beyond a simple numeric score, aiming to provide teachers with a clearer understanding of whether a student is performing at, above, or below grade level in relation to specific, grade-level Common Core standards. The focus shifts from a raw score to a classification that reflects mastery of essential reading skills.
The assessment yields several key metrics, including overall scale scores, percentile ranks, grade equivalents, Instructional Reading Levels (IRL), and Lexile ranges, all contributing to a comprehensive picture of a student’s reading abilities. These data points are readily accessible through platforms like WISEdash, facilitating data-driven decision-making.
Functional Grade Levels (FGL) in STAR Reading
Functional Grade Levels (FGL) represent a significant evolution in interpreting STAR Reading Enterprise results. Introduced to offer a more nuanced understanding of student performance, FGLs classify a student’s reading ability relative to grade-specific Common Core standards. This differs from traditional scoring methods that rely solely on numeric scale scores.
The core principle behind FGL is to determine if a student demonstrates mastery of the skills expected at their current grade level. It’s a classification – a judgment about proficiency – rather than a precise numerical value. A student’s STAR Reading scale score, considered in conjunction with their grade, determines their assigned FGL.
This approach allows educators to quickly identify students who are on track, those who require additional support, and those who may benefit from advanced reading opportunities. Understanding FGLs is crucial for targeted instruction and effective intervention strategies, ultimately promoting improved reading outcomes.
What is a Functional Grade Level?
A Functional Grade Level (FGL) in STAR Reading isn’t simply a student’s grade placement; it’s a classification indicating their demonstrated reading proficiency relative to the expectations of that grade. It answers the question: is the student performing at, above, or below the mastery level for their grade’s Common Core standards?
Crucially, FGL is designed to be descriptive, providing teachers with actionable insights into a student’s reading skills. It moves beyond a single score to offer a more holistic view of comprehension and skill application. This classification helps pinpoint specific areas where a student excels or struggles.
Think of it as a snapshot of a student’s reading capabilities within the context of their grade level. It’s a tool for informed instructional decisions, guiding educators in tailoring lessons to meet individual student needs and maximize reading growth.
FGL as a Classification, Not a Numeric Score
A key distinction regarding Functional Grade Level (FGL) is its nature as a classification, rather than a traditional numeric score. This means FGL doesn’t represent a point on a scale, but rather a category describing a student’s reading performance in relation to grade-level standards.
This approach avoids the limitations of solely relying on a single number. It acknowledges that reading proficiency is multifaceted and doesn’t always translate neatly into a quantitative value. Instead, FGL provides a qualitative assessment of mastery.
Teachers should interpret FGL as a descriptive label – “on grade level,” “above grade level,” or “below grade level” – informing instructional strategies. It’s a tool for understanding where a student stands, not just what their score is. This shift in perspective emphasizes skill mastery over arbitrary rankings.
Using STAR Reading Scale Scores to Determine FGL
Determining a student’s Functional Grade Level (FGL) relies on their STAR Reading Enterprise scale score, considered in conjunction with their current grade. The scale score, derived from the difficulty of answered questions, serves as the foundational data point for classification.
While FGL isn’t the scale score itself, the score dictates the FGL assignment. Specific scale score ranges correspond to each FGL category (on, above, or below grade level) for each grade. These ranges are established to align with grade-specific Common Core standards and skill expectations.
Therefore, educators must consult the 2023 STAR Reading chart or resources to accurately translate a student’s scale score into their appropriate FGL. This process ensures consistent and standardized interpretation of assessment results, facilitating targeted instruction and intervention.
Key Metrics in STAR Reading Results
STAR Reading results provide several key metrics crucial for understanding a student’s reading proficiency. Beyond the overall scale score, the percentile rank indicates a student’s performance relative to a national norm group, offering a comparative perspective.
Grade Equivalent suggests the grade level where a student performs, but it’s vital to remember this is an indicator, not a definitive placement. The Instructional Reading Level (IRL) pinpoints texts appropriate for instruction, while the Lexile Range identifies texts suitable for independent reading.
These metrics, when analyzed collectively, paint a comprehensive picture of a student’s reading abilities. Furthermore, data integrated within platforms like WISEdash includes Student Growth Percentile (SGP), tracking individual progress over time, and benchmarks aligned with RTI and Wisconsin Forward Exam standards.
Overall Scale Score Explained
The overall scale score in STAR Reading is a fundamental metric, representing a student’s reading ability. This score is derived from the difficulty of questions answered correctly; a higher score indicates stronger reading skills. It’s essential for tracking growth and identifying areas needing support.

However, the scale score isn’t directly tied to a grade level. Instead, it serves as the basis for determining a Functional Grade Level (FGL), which does indicate mastery of grade-specific standards. The 2023 benchmark data utilizes these scaled scores to assess student performance.
Analyzing scaled scores over time, particularly within platforms like WISEdash, reveals valuable insights into student progress. Remember, benchmark scales are crucial for interpreting these scores effectively, especially for early grades like Grade 1, where scores below 811 SS require careful consideration.
Percentile Rank Interpretation
The percentile rank in STAR Reading provides context for a student’s overall scale score. It indicates the percentage of students in the norm group who scored at or below a particular student’s score. For example, a percentile rank of 75 means the student performed as well as or better than 75% of the students in the comparison group.
This metric is valuable because it allows educators to understand a student’s performance relative to their peers. However, it’s crucial to remember that percentile ranks don’t define a student’s potential or learning needs. They simply offer a comparative snapshot.
When analyzing STAR Reading results, consider percentile ranks alongside scale scores and Functional Grade Levels (FGL). Platforms like WISEdash display this data, aiding in informed decision-making regarding interventions and instructional strategies.
Grade Equivalent: Understanding Student Placement
The grade equivalent reported in STAR Reading indicates the grade level and month where a student’s skills are aligned. For instance, a grade equivalent of 3;5 suggests the student is performing at a level typical of students in the fifth month of third grade. However, it’s vital to interpret this cautiously.
Grade equivalent is not a measure of instructional placement. It simply shows where a student’s skills correspond to grade-level expectations. A student achieving a 6.2 grade equivalent isn’t necessarily ready for sixth-grade material; it means their reading skills align with that level.
Educators should use Instructional Reading Level (IRL) and Lexile Range, alongside the grade equivalent, to determine appropriate reading materials. These metrics offer a more nuanced understanding of a student’s reading abilities and ensure targeted instruction.

Instructional Reading Level (IRL)
The Instructional Reading Level (IRL), provided by STAR Reading, pinpoints the range of text complexity best suited for a student’s independent reading and learning. It’s a crucial component for selecting appropriate reading materials that offer a balance between challenge and comprehension.
Unlike grade equivalent, which simply maps skills to grade levels, IRL focuses on actual reading ability. It considers a student’s demonstrated proficiency and suggests texts where they can successfully decode words and understand the content with minimal assistance.
STAR Reading’s IRL is often presented as a range, such as 4.0-4.6. This indicates the student will likely succeed with texts within that complexity band. Utilizing IRL ensures students are engaged with materials that foster growth without causing frustration. It’s a key metric for personalized reading instruction.
Lexile Range and its Significance
STAR Reading assessments also deliver a Lexile Range, a standardized measure of reading ability and text difficulty. This range, expressed as a numerical value (e.g., 600L-800L), is vital for matching students with appropriately challenging reading materials.
The Lexile Framework ensures a consistent scale, allowing educators to select books and articles that align with a student’s reading proficiency. A lower Lexile measure indicates easier text, while a higher measure signifies greater complexity.
Understanding a student’s Lexile range facilitates differentiated instruction and promotes reading growth. It empowers students to independently choose books within their zone of proximal development, fostering a love of reading. Utilizing Lexile measures alongside Instructional Reading Level (IRL) provides a comprehensive view of a student’s reading capabilities.
STAR Reading Benchmarks & Growth
STAR Reading Benchmarks are crucial for monitoring student progress throughout the academic year. These benchmarks, often utilizing scaled scores, provide a snapshot of reading proficiency at specific points in time. Analyzing benchmark data reveals trends in student performance and identifies areas needing support.
The 2023 data highlights significant improvements, with grade-level reading benchmarks rising from 33.7% to 47.8%. This positive trend indicates the effectiveness of implemented reading strategies. Furthermore, the need for urgent reading interventions decreased, demonstrating proactive support is yielding results.
Tracking student growth is equally important. The Student Growth Percentile (SGP), available in WISEdash, measures a student’s progress relative to their peers. Consistent monitoring of benchmarks and growth data informs instructional decisions and ensures all students are on a path to reading success.
2023 Reading Benchmark Data Analysis
Analyzing the 2023 STAR Reading benchmark data reveals key insights into student reading performance. The data utilizes scaled scores to assess proficiency, allowing for comparisons across grade levels and time. A notable finding is the increase in grade-level reading benchmarks, rising from 33.7% to 47.8% – a significant positive shift.
This improvement suggests the effectiveness of current reading interventions and instructional practices. However, data also highlights areas where targeted support is still needed. Specifically, the analysis identifies students requiring urgent reading interventions, enabling educators to provide focused assistance.
Furthermore, the data is accessible through platforms like WISEdash, offering detailed reports on scaled scores, percentile ranks, and Student Growth Percentiles (SGP). This comprehensive view empowers educators to make data-driven decisions and personalize learning experiences.

Grade 1 Benchmark: Scaled Score Considerations (Below 811 SS)
For Grade 1 students, a scaled score below 811 on the STAR Reading assessment warrants careful consideration. This benchmark indicates a potential need for targeted reading support and intervention. Educators should analyze individual student data alongside other assessments to gain a comprehensive understanding of reading skills.
It’s crucial to remember that a scaled score is not the sole indicator of a student’s reading ability. Factors such as language background, prior learning experiences, and individual learning styles should also be taken into account. Early identification of students scoring below this benchmark allows for proactive intervention.
These interventions may include small-group instruction, individualized reading plans, and the use of evidence-based reading programs. Consistent monitoring of student progress is essential to ensure interventions are effective and adjusted as needed, ultimately fostering reading success.
Tracking Grade-Level Reading Progress

Consistent monitoring of student performance on the STAR Reading assessment is vital for tracking grade-level reading progress. Utilizing scaled scores, percentile ranks, and Student Growth Percentiles (SGP) within platforms like WISEdash provides a comprehensive view of individual and collective achievement.
Regular assessment allows educators to identify students who are meeting, exceeding, or falling behind grade-level expectations. This data-driven approach enables timely adjustments to instructional strategies and targeted interventions. Analyzing trends over time reveals the effectiveness of reading programs and instructional practices.
Furthermore, tracking progress informs communication with parents and stakeholders, fostering a collaborative approach to student success. By consistently monitoring reading development, educators can ensure all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential and become proficient readers.
Impact of Urgent Reading Interventions
Data from the 2023 STAR Reading assessments highlights the significant impact of urgent reading interventions on student outcomes. Analysis reveals a notable decrease in the number of students requiring immediate support, demonstrating the effectiveness of targeted programs.
Early identification of reading difficulties, facilitated by scaled scores and Functional Grade Levels (FGL), allows for prompt intervention. These interventions, tailored to individual student needs, address specific skill deficits and accelerate reading growth.
The results showcase a positive correlation between timely interventions and improved reading benchmarks. Educators utilizing WISEdash to monitor student progress can effectively implement and adjust interventions, maximizing their impact. A reduction in urgent intervention needs signifies a strengthening of foundational reading skills across the student population.
STAR Reading Data in WISEdash
WISEdash, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction’s data warehouse, provides robust support for analyzing Renaissance Star Assessments, including STAR Reading. This integration allows educators to efficiently monitor student performance and track progress towards reading goals.
Within WISEdash, users can access key metrics derived from STAR Reading results, such as scaled scores, national percentile ranks, and Student Growth Percentiles (SGP). These data points offer a comprehensive view of individual student achievement and overall reading trends.
Furthermore, WISEdash facilitates the comparison of STAR Reading data with RTI (Response to Intervention) and Wisconsin Forward Exam benchmarks, enabling educators to identify students who may require additional support. The dynamic reports within WISEdash empower data-driven decision-making and targeted instruction.
WISEdash Support for Renaissance Star Assessments
WISEdash offers comprehensive support for Renaissance Star assessments, including STAR Reading, STAR Math, and STAR Early Literacy. This integration streamlines data analysis for educators across Wisconsin, providing a centralized platform for monitoring student progress.
The system dynamically pulls data from Renaissance Star, presenting it in user-friendly reports. These reports include crucial metrics like scaled scores, allowing for precise tracking of student achievement over time. National percentile rank provides context by comparing student performance to a national norm group.
Student Growth Percentile (SGP) is a particularly valuable feature, showcasing individual student growth relative to their peers. WISEdash also links STAR data to RTI and Wisconsin Forward Exam benchmarks, facilitating informed instructional decisions and targeted interventions.
Data Available in WISEdash Reports

WISEdash reports provide a wealth of data derived from Renaissance Star assessments, empowering educators with actionable insights. Key metrics readily available include the scaled score, a standardized measure of student performance, enabling consistent tracking across time and grades.
National percentile rank offers valuable comparative data, positioning each student’s score within a national context. Furthermore, reports feature the Student Growth Percentile (SGP), highlighting individual progress relative to peers – a crucial indicator of learning trajectory.
Educators can also access data aligned with RTI (Response to Intervention) and Wisconsin Forward Exam benchmarks, facilitating targeted support and informed instructional planning. This comprehensive data set allows for a holistic view of student reading abilities and growth, supporting data-driven decision-making.
Student Growth Percentile (SGP) in WISEdash
The Student Growth Percentile (SGP), accessible within WISEdash reports, is a powerful metric for measuring a student’s academic progress over time. It indicates a student’s growth relative to their peers with similar prior academic achievement.
Unlike static scores, SGP focuses on improvement. A student with an SGP of 75, for example, has demonstrated growth exceeding 75% of their peers who had similar starting points. This provides a nuanced understanding of learning, beyond simply where a student currently ranks.
WISEdash dynamically calculates SGP using Renaissance Star data, offering educators a clear picture of individual and collective growth trends. Utilizing SGP allows for targeted interventions and celebrates student progress, fostering a growth mindset and informing instructional strategies.
RTI and Wisconsin Forward Exam Benchmarks

WISEdash integrates STAR Reading data with Response to Intervention (RTI) frameworks and Wisconsin Forward Exam benchmarks, providing a comprehensive view of student performance. This alignment allows educators to proactively identify students needing support and monitor the effectiveness of interventions.
STAR scaled scores can be cross-referenced with established RTI tiers, triggering appropriate interventions based on demonstrated need. Furthermore, WISEdash reports display how STAR results correlate with predicted performance on the Wisconsin Forward Exam, offering valuable predictive insights.
This integration facilitates data-driven decision-making, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently to maximize student growth. By connecting STAR assessments to broader state accountability measures, educators can confidently track progress and demonstrate the impact of instructional practices.
Resources and Updates (2023 & Beyond)
Access to the 2023 STAR Reading chart and supporting documentation is readily available through Renaissance Learning’s official website. Educators can find detailed information on interpreting scale scores, percentile ranks, and Functional Grade Levels (FGLs).
Sample Test Materials (STMs) aligned to the B.E.S.T. standards are provided to familiarize students with the assessment format. Renaissance Learning consistently updates its resources to reflect evolving educational standards and best practices.
Stay informed about ongoing enhancements to WISEdash, which continues to expand its support for Renaissance Star assessments. Regular webinars and professional development opportunities are offered to ensure educators can effectively utilize STAR data to drive student success. Expect continued refinement of benchmark data and reporting capabilities in the years ahead.
Accessing the 2023 STAR Reading PDF Chart

The 2023 STAR Reading test score chart, available in PDF format, can be directly downloaded from the Renaissance Learning website. Navigate to their resources section, specifically filtering for STAR Reading materials and the 2023 release. This chart provides a comprehensive overview of scale score interpretations and corresponding Functional Grade Levels (FGLs).
Alternatively, school districts utilizing WISEdash can access integrated reports displaying STAR data, including scaled scores, percentile ranks, and Student Growth Percentiles (SGPs). These reports often incorporate the 2023 benchmark data directly, eliminating the need for separate PDF access.
Ensure you are accessing the official Renaissance Learning resources to guarantee the accuracy and validity of the information. Regularly check for updates as benchmark data may be refined throughout the year.

Sample Test Materials (STMs) and Alignment to Standards
Renaissance Learning provides Sample Test Materials (STMs) for the STAR Reading assessment, allowing educators and students to familiarize themselves with the test format and question types. These STMs are crucial for preparing students and reducing test anxiety.
Importantly, these sample items are specifically aligned to the B.E.S.T. standards (Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking), ensuring that the assessment accurately measures student proficiency in key reading skills. This alignment is a cornerstone of the STAR Reading program’s validity.
The 2023 STAR Reading chart aids in interpreting scores derived from these assessments, linking performance to established Functional Grade Levels and providing insights into mastery of grade-specific standards. Accessing both the STMs and the chart empowers educators to effectively monitor student progress and tailor instruction accordingly.