What is the primary purpose of screening assessments such as DIBELS/AIMSweb?

• A. To measure long-term achievement for accountability
• B. To replace teacher observations
• C. To assess writing quality
• D. To identify students who may need additional assessment

Answer: (D)

Screening assessments are designed to quickly flag students who may be at risk for reading difficulties so they can receive additional, more thorough evaluation. Tools like DIBELS and AIMSweb provide brief, standardized checks of foundational reading skills and are used to identify who might need diagnostic testing or more intensive instruction. They aren’t meant to measure long-term achievement for accountability, nor to replace teacher observations, and they don’t assess writing quality. Instead, they help teachers decide where to focus supports and which students should undergo further assessment to determine specific needs.