Pre-testing essentials

YARC is an individually administered spoken test carried out by teachers or SENDCo’s.

• The test should be administered in a quiet room, away from distractions
• Try to forestall any interruption of the testing session by visitors or announcements
• It is recommended that the assessor spends a couple of minutes in general conversation with the pupil before testing to ensure they are at ease; introduce the session by explaining that the pupil will be asked to complete some reading tasks

The YARC Early reading tests take approximately 5 minutes each to administer. The entire test runs for around 20 minutes, excluding settling time and a break partway through the test The YARC Early Reading tests may be given in one session and administered in any order. However, young pupils may find it difficult to focus for this length of time, so it may be preferable to divide the tests into two sessions, or to have a break during the assessment.

Materials required

The test takes about 10 to 15 minutes to administer. In order to ensure a reliable estimate of a pupil’s reading ability, it is necessary for a pupil to complete two passages. If the (optional) Single Word Reading Test is to be administered, allow for an extra 5-10 minutes. This can be found on the final page of the Passage Reading book.

Materials required

• Pupil Record Form
• YARC Passage Reading Book
• YARC Passage Reading Manual
• Stopwatch to record pupil’s reading time

The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes to administer. If the (optional) Single Word Reading Test is to be administered, allow for an extra 5-10 minutes. This can be found on the first page of the Passage Reading book.

Materials required

• Student Record Booklet
• YARC Passage Reading Book
• YARC Passage Reading Manual
• Stopwatch to record student’s reading time