What characterizes a student's independent reading level?

The independent reading level of a student is characterized primarily by their ability to read texts with high accuracy and comprehension, typically in the range of 95% to 100%. This means that the student can read a book on their own, understanding most of the content without the need for external assistance or support. High fluency at this level also contributes to overall reading confidence and enjoyment.

While being able to read any book fluently may suggest advanced skills, it does not guarantee comprehension, which is essential for the independent reading classification. Similarly, reading with complete comprehension without any support reflects a high level of skill but is not strictly how independent reading is measured; the emphasis is on the ability to read independently at a high level of accuracy. Finally, reading many books at an advanced level may indicate proficiency but does not necessarily define the independent reading level without considering fluency and comprehension metrics.