The State of the Field: Qualitative Analyses of Text Complexity

The purpose of this review is to examine the function, logic, and impact of qualitative systems, with a focus on understanding their benefits and imperfections. We identify two primary functions for their use: (a) to match texts to reader ability so that readers read books that are within their grasp and (b) to unearth, and then scaffold, those features of specific texts that are likely to present challenges for readers of differing abilities. We examine three approaches to qualitative text analysis (text leveling systems, rubric and exemplar systems, and text mapping systems) relative to these functions. We conclude by strongly advocating the use of qualitative systems, if for no other reason than to prevent the unchecked use of quantitative approaches from promoting invalid applications of text complexity. At the same time, we raise a set of vexing issues that the field must address if these approaches are to be used with even a modicum of confidence. TextProject R E A D I N G R E S E A R C H R E P O R T #13.01