Based on educator feedback, several updates have been made to Star Phonics to make phonics assessments more actionable in the classroom. These changes provide more flexible reporting, more actionable data, and tools to support accurate word pronunciation. Each of the three updates outlined below is designed to help teachers better understand student performance and provide more targeted instruction.
1. Audio recordings on diagnostic assessments
Teachers can now hear audio recordings of every word on Star Phonics diagnostic assessments, just like in the phonics screener. This allows teachers to be confident in how each word is pronounced and allows for more accurate scoring.
2. Enhanced screener data extracts
Educators will now find two types of extracts: one showing overall performance by phonics category and total words correct, and one breaking down errors on each word, helping teachers pinpoint exactly where students need additional support.
3. New toggle on screener reports: Target skills read correctly
Phonics screener reports (except the tile report) now include a “view by target skill read correctly” toggle. When the toggle is clicked on, words are marked correct if the student read the sound(s) tied to the target skill correctly, even if other parts of the word were misread. For example, if a student reads “vod” as “rod,” the word counts as correct for the target “o” sound, giving teachers a more precise picture of phonics skill mastery.
Why these enhancements matter
These latest updates provide teachers with more actionable data and make it easier to deliver targeted, accurate instruction. After using a universal screener, Star Phonics goes further: It not only identifies which students may have phonics deficits but also pinpoints the exact phonics skills that need support.
Having the right assessment tools in place is essential for understanding student development and effectively guiding instruction. Learn more about Renaissance’s comprehensive assessment solution here.