Modifying materials
Overview of readability analysis and free tools
This webinar from an open education resources advocate and developer provides a comprehensive overview of readability. (The link will take you to a site that features the video.) Readability tools will help you choose texts that are at an appropriate level for learning (not too easy and not too difficult) and assessment. Since the scores are reported as grade levels, which don't necessarily relate to adult progress, you' ll need to determine an appropriate instructional level based on previous experience.
Lexile measures
The Lexile system is commonly used in US education systems. Publishers have also adopted the system. It is a comprehensive framework for educators that facilitates instruction. It has the following components:
Lexile measure of texts
Lexile measure of individual readers
Suggested instructional strategies
Suggested reading materials that align with instructional goals.
A free text analyser tool is also available.
Free for individuals; Lexile is trademarked.
Other free readability tools
All three sites are free and don't require accounts.
CalculateYourWords.com is a simple readability tool without explanations or additional information. Paste your text into the space provided and you're done. An average readability level from several analyses is provided. (This text has an average grade level of 13!)
AnalyzeMyWriting.com is also simple to use and contains some useful information about readability. Paste your text into the space provided and you're done. An average readability level from several analyses is provided.
Readability Formulas.com is comprehensive, containing some additional explanations. It also allows you to upload files. However, you will have to navigate thorough distracting ads.
Simplify texts for instruction and differentiation
The following tools can be used to help you simplify complex texts and focus on vocabulary.
All three sites are free and don't require accounts.
A vocabulary analyser from the Lexical Tutor will highlight academic vocabulary and common words. Paste the text into the box and receive a colour coded analysis along with a profile.
Rewordify.com will help you simplify difficult texts for instruction. Simply paste the text into the space provided. You can also create word lists, lessons and quizzes.
The Hemingway App , used online, is a plain language tool. It will highlight lengthy, complex sentences and common errors using colour coding. It also produces a readability level which will change as you modify the text. An AI version is available for a fee.
Tools you can use to choose texts
The following tools can be used to help you choose texts based on complexity and cultural relevance. You don't have to put them to full use (i.e. complete the form or use all the rubrics) to gain some important insights. They are worth the time it takes to read and are only a few pages long.
A-Beginners-Guide-to-Text-Complexity-GR-White-Paper-3.2.pdfUnderstanding text complexity is part of the Common Core Standards used in the US. The Beginner's Guide to Text Complexity presents an overview and contains rubrics and examples to help you understand the topic.
Reading-Diversity-v2-Redesign-WEB-Nov2017.pdfMore important to consider than text complexity, is a reader's personal connection to a text. The Reading Diversity document will help you understand the importance of ensuring readers see themselves represented in texts.
Inclusive and diverse image repositories
A picture is worth a thousand words! Open UBC from the University of British Columbia library has put together a comprehensive list of open image collections that are also diverse and inclusive. You're sure to find images that reflect the communities and cultures of adult learners.