What is a primary purpose of a criterion-referenced reading benchmark?

A primary purpose of a criterion-referenced reading benchmark is to set standards for student skill mastery. These benchmarks provide specific expectations for what students should be able to accomplish in their reading skills at various grade levels. By establishing clear criteria, educators can assess whether students have reached the necessary level of understanding and proficiency in reading.

This assessment allows teachers to identify students who are meeting the standards as well as those who may need additional support or intervention. The focus is on measuring student performance against defined learning objectives rather than comparing them to each other. Establishing these benchmarks is vital for promoting effective instruction and guiding curriculum development, ensuring that all students achieve the necessary skills for their grade level.

In contrast, evaluating student attendance, designing physical education programs, and creating group activities are not relevant to the purpose of criterion-referenced benchmarks in reading, as they focus on different aspects of student engagement and curriculum development.