Literacy Levels
National Reporting System for Adult Education (NRS) Functioning Levels -
Adult Basic Education (ABE) Criteria and Competencies
ABE 1 (Beginning ABE Literacy)
Grade level 0-1.9
Student has no or minimal reading and writing skills, may have little or no comprehension of how print corresponds to spoken language and may have difficulty using a writing instrument, may have little or no recognition of numbers or simple counting skills, may have little or no ability to read basic signs or maps, can provide limited personal informaiton on simple forms, and can write a limited number of basic sight words and familiar words and phrases. Student can handle simple routine entry-level jobs that require little or no basic written communication or computational skills. No knowledge of computers or technology.
Test benchmark: TABE (levels 9-10) reading 367 and below, total math 313 and below and language 392 and below.
ABE 2 (Beginning Basic Education)
Grade level 2.0-3.9
Student can read simple material on familiar subjects; can write simple notes and messages on familiar situations. Student can count, add and subtract three-digit numbers, perform multiplication through 12, identify simple fractions, and perform other simple mathematical operations; is ale to read simple directions, signs and maps, fill out simple forms requiring basic personal information, write phone messages and make simple changes. The student can handle basic entry-level jobs that require minimal literacy skills, can read want ads and complete simple job applications.
Test benchmark: TABE (levels 9-10) reading 368-460, total math 314-441, and language 390-490.
ABE 3 (Low Intermediate Basic Education)
Grade level 4.0-5.9
Student can read text on famliar subjects that have a simple and clear underlying structure, can use context to determine meaning and can write simple paragraphs with a main idea and supporting details on familiar topics. Student can perform with high accuracy all four basic math operations using whole numbers up to three digits and can identify and use all basic mathematical symbols. Student is able to handle basic reading, writing and computational tasks related to life roles such as completing medical forms, order forms and employment applications. Student can qualify for entry-level jobs that require following basic written instructions and diagrams with assistance. Can use simple computer programs and perform a sequence of routine tasks given directions in using technology.
Test benchmark: TABE (levels 9-10) reading 461-517, total math 442-505, and language 491-523.
ABE 4 (High Intermediate Basic Education)
Grade level 6.0-8.9
Student is able to read simple descriptions and narratives on familiar subjects or from which new vocabulary can be determined by context, and can make minimal inferences. The student is able to write simple narrative descriptions and short essays on familiar topics and can use punctuation consistently. The student can perform all four basic math operations with whole numbers and fractions, is able to handle basic life skills tasks such as interpreting graphs and charts. The student can read materials on familiar topics such as simple employee handbooks and payroll stubs, complete simple forms and reconcile a bank statement. The student can learn and work with most basic computer software, such as using a word processor, and can follow simple instructions for using technology.
Test benchmark: TABE (levels 9-10) reading 518-566, total math 506-565, and language 524-559.
