About LASS 8-11

PLEASE NOTE: The information in these articles refers to LASS for ages 8-11 years. If you would like information on LASS for ages 11-15 years, please click here.

What is LASS?

LASS is a fully digitised multifunctional assessment system for use with students in the age range 8 years 0 months to 11 years 11 months.

It comprises nine subtests which cover reading, phonic decoding, spelling, memory and phonological awareness. Most of these subtests are adaptive. This means that the computer automatically adjusts the difficulty of the items to suit the ability level of the student completing the test. This helps to prevent students from becoming bored by items that are too easy for them or frustrated by items that are too difficult.

LASS can pinpoint specific areas of need and is usually taken by students who have a high probability of dyslexia. It gives a detailed indication of a student’s particular strengths and weaknesses that may impact reading.

Why use LASS?

  • Based on the outcome of comprehensive research at the University of Hull.
  • Widely used by schools both in the UK and internationally.
  • Assess the literacy and cognitive skills of children who have a high probability of dyslexia and develop detailed profiles of their particular strengths and weaknesses.
  • Quickly identify any difficulties related to dyslexia or those caused by underlying cognitive problems in phonology and/or working memory, highlighting any differences between a child’s actual and expected literacy levels.

Results are generated as clear graphical profiles that can be compared with percentiles, and age equivalent scores. The easy-to-interpret reports also include suggested next steps.

Results can assist in the identification of students who are underperforming in reading and spelling and identification of dyslexia.

Features of LASS

  • 30-45 minutes to complete
  • Fully digitised – taken on GL Ready online platform
  • Can be taken on PC or tablet
  • Suitable for 8-11 years
  • Identify dyslexia and other learning difficulties
  • Pinpoint specific areas of need
  • Detailed indication of pupil’s particular strengths
  • 9 short subtests
  • Use as a diagnostic follow-up to Rapid with automatic integration of results from the earlier assessment