Decide what you want to observe
A broad question such as “What reading level is my child?” cannot be answered by one timer. Choose a narrower purpose: observe oral reading rate, review word-level errors, note expression, or discuss understanding after the timed sample ends.
Prepare a calm sample
Use a passage that is a reasonable starting point, explain that the activity is brief, and avoid teaching during the timed minute. Restart if an outside interruption makes the sample unreliable.
Review the evidence
During readingFollow along and mark only words you want to review.
After readingConfirm the last word and correct every mark.
CalculateUse correct words, elapsed time, and attempted words.
Add contextNote passage choice and anything unusual.
Keep the interpretation narrow
WCPM and accuracy describe performance on this passage in this setting. They do not diagnose a reading condition or establish official placement. Discuss persistent concerns with a qualified professional.
Use the free WCPM calculator after the sample or read how oral reading fluency assessment works.