To assess the reading level of a test, which method should be utilized?

The most effective method to assess the reading level of a text involves considering the complexity of the words used, which is reflected in the counting of words containing more than one syllable. This approach aligns with the principles of readability formulas, which often factor in the number of multisyllabic words as an indicator of text difficulty. Multisyllabic words tend to be more challenging for readers, particularly those at lower reading levels.

While counting paragraphs, average letters in words, or the number of sentences in a paragraph can provide some insights into the structure and length of the text, they do not directly quantify the complexity of vocabulary, which is crucial for determining readability. Hence, focusing on the syllable count of words helps give a clearer indication of how difficult a text might be for different audiences, making it a suitable method for assessing reading levels.