Characteristics of Books:
 

Level A-B: (kindergarten)

• 8 pages long
• 1-2 lines on a page
• Large print, well spaced
• One illustration per page
• Direct match of text and illustration
• Picture carries much of the story
• Pattern sentences in which only one word changes
• Pattern changes at the end

Level C-D: (beginning first grade)

• Generally 8 pages

• 1-4 lines per page

• Return sweep (sentence split into two lines)

• Placement of text varies on the page

• Story is carried in the text as well as the picture

• 2-3 or more word changes in the pattern of the sentences

Level E, F, G: (middle first grade)  

• 8-16 pages

• Wide range of punctuation

• Text carries most of the meaning

• Challenging vocabulary

• Sentences may carry over to the next page

• Moderately complex story structures with problem/solution

• Higher level comprehension, inferences

•  16 to 24 words per page

• Under 300

• 3 to 8 lines per page

• Various font sizes

• Illustrations used to confirm and support text, create interest

•  Challenging and specialized vocabulary

• Compound words

• Limited repetition and predictability

• Several episodes in one book

• Character descriptions are involved

• Longer, slightly more complex chapter books

• Longer picture books

• More characters

• Usually between fifteen and seventy-five pages long

• Some shorter books but with more difficult vocabulary

• More challenging context

• More complex themes

• Includes realistic fiction, fantasy, informational text

• Fables and legends

• Black and white illustrations that enhance enjoyment and visualization of characters, setting and action

• Less dependence on illustrations

Level M,N,O,P: (third grade)

• Topics vary widely

• Brand new subjects

• Longer chapter books about 100 pages, short chapters

• Complex ideas and language

• More complex themes; issues of respect for differences, loneliness, independence ethical treatment of animals etc. , real life problems (preadolescents and early adolescents)

• More biographies

• Subtle meanings that require interpretation and background knowledge

• More sophisticated vocabulary and vocabulary specific to context

• Readers need strategies for understanding plot and theme, and to learn the meaning of new vocabulary words

• Readers are beginning to use books to gain the vicarious experiences that will help them understand their world

• Long texts requiring reader to sustain interest and meaning over many days

Level Q and Above:

• Increase in vocabulary

• Increase in complexity of themes, plots and issues

•  Increase in need for higher level thinking and comprehension skills

For more information on leveled reading, go to http://www.fountasandpinnellleveledbooks.com/ .