Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) - Definition & Meaning

The Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) is an assessment used in the state of California, USA, to evaluate the knowledge and skills of prospective teachers and educators who intend to teach reading in kindergarten through 12th-grade classrooms. The RICA is designed to ensure that educators are adequately prepared to teach reading effectively to students.

Key points about the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) include:

Content Areas: The RICA covers various aspects of reading instruction, including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary development, reading comprehension, and reading assessment.
Teacher Certification: In California, passing the RICA is often a requirement for obtaining a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential or an Education Specialist Instruction Credential with a specialization in Mild/Moderate Disabilities. It may also be required for other credentials and authorizations.
Test Format: The RICA typically consists of multiple-choice questions, constructed-response tasks, and written performance assessments that evaluate a candidate's ability to plan, deliver, and assess reading instruction.
Scoring: Scoring of the RICA is based on established criteria, and candidates must achieve a passing score to meet the certification requirements.
Preparation: Many candidates prepare for the RICA through coursework, professional development, and study materials specifically designed to address the content and skills assessed by the examination.
Professional Development: The results of the RICA may inform professional development plans for educators, ensuring they have the necessary skills to support students' reading development.

Other Terms Starting With R

Remedial classes

Remedial classes, also known as developmental or intervention classes, are designed to provide additional support and instruction to students who require extra help in specific academic subjects or skills. Remedial classes aim to address learning gaps and support students in reaching grade-level proficiency.

Remote Learning

Remote learning, also known as distance learning or online learning, refers to a mode of education where instruction and learning activities occur remotely, often facilitated through digital technologies and online platforms. It enables students to engage in educational experiences without being physically present in a traditional classroom setting.

Read Write Learners

Read-write learners, also known as verbal-linguistic learners, are individuals who prefer to learn through written and spoken language. They excel in activities that involve reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Retrieval Practice

Retrieval practice, also known as the testing effect or active recall, is a learning strategy that involves actively recalling information from memory. Instead of passively reviewing study materials, students engage in the act of retrieving facts, concepts, or ideas without looking at the source material.

Reflective Thinking

Reflective thinking, also known as metacognition or critical reflection, is the process of analyzing and evaluating one's own thoughts, experiences, and actions to gain deeper insights and improve future decision-making.

Relative Grade

A relative grade, also known as a curved grade, refers to a grading system in which students' grades are determined based on their performance in relation to their peers' performance rather than a predetermined standard.

Remote Classes

Remote classes, also known as online classes or virtual classes, refer to educational courses and instruction delivered through digital platforms and technology, allowing students to participate in learning activities from any location with internet access.