Louisville Public Library, CO
Home Library MenuEasy Readers
What are Easy Readers?
Easy Readers are a special format of book, designed for children who are learning how to read.
They are built just for beginning readers in that they use controlled vocabulary; a limited number of words are used and the words are easy to read.
Easy Readers have other features that make them well-suited to children who are learning how to read:
- Large type
- Short sentences
- Simple vocabulary
- Predictable text placement
- White space between lines of text
- Repetition
- Pictures that give clues to words
References:
From Cover to Cover by Kathleen T. Horning
How are they leveled?
Many Easy Readers come with the publishers’ reading level on the cover. These levels vary from one publisher to the next.
To provide consistency, the library uses our own system for leveling Easy Readers.
Level 1:
Few words per page. Pictures give strong clues to the words. Lots of repeated words or patterned sentences.
Level 2:
Short sentences. Some repetition. Pictures support text. 2-6 lines per page. A range of punctuation is used.
Level 3:
Less repetition of words. 4-8 lines per page. Stories have more events. Pictures provide less support. Vocabulary expands.
Level 4:
Words are more complex and new vocabulary is used. Many lines per page, and often, chapters. Fewer pictures.
Other Leveling Systems
Our levels also correspond with the Fountas and Pinnell leveling system sometimes used in schools:
Level 1: A B C
Level 2: D E F
Level 3: G H I
Level 4: J and up
Reading Suggestions
The best Easy Readers combine pictures and text to make reading an easy and pleasurable experience for the child. When learning how to read is a positive experience, children will be more motivated to keep trying. Ask us for suggestions. See award winning titles here.