Need help determining reading level for 7yo

[bobbeym]

My nephew (DN) checked out several library books the other day. I googled AR reading levels and most of the books are in the 3.0-3.9 range, with a few in the 5.0-5.5 range or unlisted.   I'm pretty sure the higher level books will need to be read alouds.

 

Books in the 3.0 - 3.9 AR level

Arthur and the Recess Rookie by Marc Brown

Mostly Ghostly: Who Let the Ghosts Out? by RL Stine

Arthur and the Popularity Test by Marc Brown

Locked in the Library by Marc Brown

Magic Tree House: Viking Ships at Sunrise by Mary Pope Osborne

Magic Tree House: A Perfect Time for Pandas by Mary Pope Osborne

 

 

Books above 5.0 or unlisted

Jack Sparrow: Silver by Rob Kidd

Legends of the Brethren Court: The Caribbean by Rob Kidd

Sir Seth Thistlethwaite and the Soothsayer's Shoes: Book 1 by Richard Thake

Scream Shop: Abracadanger by Tracey West

 

What should I be looking for as he's reading to me?  How do I pick a reading program once I figure out what level he's at? Do I still need to do phonics if he's reading at a 3rd grade level or we just focus on spelling, vocab, and grammar?

[Arcadia]

Fluency and expression when reading.

I'll cover phonics in spelling instead of in a reading program. Your nephew might not have any problem reading the higher level books. Check for understanding though.

[weintz8]

You could try giving him the comprehension quizzes to see at what level he understands what he's reading.  You can do free comprehension quizzes here; http://www.bookadventure.com/Home.aspx

 

If he gets an 80% or better in 2nd grade or higher books, I would think he can move on to a language arts program that does not include phonics.  You will want one that has writing, grammar, and continues with comprehension.  If he is a poor speller you may need to add spelling also.