A tool designed to estimate the reading difficulty of a text, this measure helps match readers with materials appropriate for their skill level. For instance, a short story with a score of 800L would likely challenge a reader with a measure of 500L. This measurement system considers factors like sentence length and word frequency to determine complexity.
Matching readers with appropriately challenging texts fosters reading comprehension and enjoyment, preventing frustration and encouraging growth. Developed in the late 20th century, this framework provides a valuable standard for educators, librarians, and parents seeking to support literacy development. This standardized approach has become increasingly important in personalized learning environments.