KPM: Why do some benchmarks, like Letter Sounds and Blending, show asterisks in reports?

 Answer

When asterisks appear next to sub-measures in KPM reports, it indicates that no validated benchmark is available for that specific sub-measure. This typically occurs when there is insufficient data during the research and pilot phases to establish a reliable benchmark through psychometric analysis.

However, a validated benchmark may exist for the combined total score of those sub-measures. For example, in the Letter Sounds measure, both receptive and expressive items are assessed in Waves 2 and 3, but only the total score has a validated benchmark.

For instance, in the case of Letter Sounds, there are receptive and expressive items for Wave 2 & Wave 3, but only the total score is provided on the benchmark document.

📊 Example: Letter Sounds Benchmark

• Receptive and Expressive items: No individual benchmark (asterisks shown)

• Total Score: Validated benchmark available

A student scoring “On Track” for the total Letter Sounds measure indicates they can identify letters and associate them with correct sounds—demonstrating strong foundational skills. These students may benefit from upward scaffolding to continue advancing their literacy development.

🔗 View KPM Benchmarks

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The chart indicates that validated benchmarks are absent for receptive and expressive items; only the total score has a benchmark.