The Tools for Equitable Reading Instruction (TERIs) are research-based rubrics designed to assess key features of high-quality literacy instruction. The TERIs include a Text-Based Comprehension tool (TERI:TBC) and a Foundational Skills tool (TERI:FS).
Researchers at the University of Virginia developed these measures to provide educators with a shared language for observing and discussing reading instruction. Schools, districts, and states use the TERIs to analyze instructional practice, identify areas for growth, and support formative feedback and coaching.
Validating the TERIs
We have trained over a hundred raters to use the TERI reliably. Multiple validation studies suggest higher TERI scores significantly predict positive student outcomes.
The TERI: TBC validation study demonstrated significant positive correlations between higher TERI scores and student achievement growth.
There were also significant positive associations between TERI scores and
positive student perceptions of the classroom environment.
In the TERI: FS validation study, we also found that TERI scores significantly predict positive student achievement outcomes. Additional technical reports are available upon request.
TERI as a Measure for Program Evaluation
The TERIs are currently used to measure of literacy instruction in three, large scale efforts:
1. SRI Education is using the TERIs to understand instruction across the Urban District Literacy Collaborative, a consortium of four, large urban districts working together to support positive teacher and student outcomes. This work is funded by Schusterman Family Philanthropies.
2. In partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, we are using the TERIs to support evaluation of the statewide Literacy Launch initiative.
3. In partnership with RPPL, a consortium of professional learning organizations are using the TERIs to diagnose teacher needs and provide more targeted coaching supports.
The TERIs are the only literacy observation tool featured in RPPL’s measurement toolkits.
Our work has been made possible through the generous support of the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies