General Information
Most first graders should take the RSI in small groups with a teacher (see video).

The RSI-Primary is not a standardized, norm-referenced test. The right answer to any RSI item for a student, is the one that most closely reflects that student’s individual reading style. The RSI should not be timed. Most first graders complete the RSI in two to three sittings in a total of about 35 to 45 minutes.

Before Administering the RSI

1. Provide the children with experiences for the concepts presented on the RSI, such as working with: background music, no background music, bright light, soft light, snacks available, no snacks available, an informal working area (sitting on pillows, rugs), and a formal working area (sitting at a desk).
2. Print one copy of the RSI-Primary Teacher’s Manual and sufficient RSI-Primary booklets for each student. Staple the student booklets together.
3. Study the RSI-Primary Teacher’s Manual. Practice reading the italicized directions and prepare Cards A to F so they can be shown to students during administration of the RSIPrimary.

Administering the RSI

1. The RSI-Primary is usually administered in 2 or 3 sittings to groups of about 3 or 4 children at one time. Note: For mature first graders, groups of 4 or 5 students may be formed (see video).
2. Have students sit separately at a table or at individual desks close to the teacher.
3. Distribute one RSI booklet to each student.
4. Follow the directions for administration, pausing long enough after each item so that students can select and mark their answer. Check each student’s booklet to make certain that students are providing an answer for each item.
5. If students have a question about an item, explain its meaning briefly.
6. Stop before students are fatigued – usually after about 10-15 minutes.
7. Administer other sections of the RSI after appropriate breaks or on another day.

Scoring the RSI
Enter each student’s RSI answers into the RSI program, score the answers, and print each student’s RSI profiles and/or reports.