DIBELS Next is described as what type of assessment?

• A. A screening and progress monitoring assessment for students from kindergarten to eighth grade
• B. A diagnostic exam only
• C. A purely summative test
• D. A speed-reading test

Answer: (A)

DIBELS Next is designed as a universal screening and progress-monitoring tool for early literacy. It is given to all students from kindergarten through eighth grade to quickly identify those who may be at risk for reading difficulties and to track their growth over time with regular, brief checks. This makes it a tool for ongoing instruction planning, not a one-time diagnosis. It isn’t a diagnostic exam, and it isn’t used as a purely summative assessment that only measures end-of-year status. It also isn’t a speed-reading test; the focus is on accuracy and fluency in foundational literacy skills through short, timed measures, which helps teachers tailor instruction and interventions as needed.