Level-based teaching material for learning to read : A readability analysis of Den magiska kulan

The aim of the study is to examine a book used as level-based teaching material, Den magiska kulan (Wänblad, 2011), to analyse the progression within and between the different levels, A, B and C, intended for use in grade 1. The material is designed so that pupils at different levels in their reading development can share the same literature. Another aim is to study the connection between illustrations and text. This literature study is based on both a qualitative and a quantitative method of analysis. The qualitative method applies a readability analysis with the focus on the graphic form and the language of the text. The quantitative method measures the LIX (readability index) of the texts. The result of the study shows that all the levels are suitable for grade 1 since their degree of difficulty is adapted and they have a smooth progression, as well as illustrations which are closely linked to the text. Although these readers are made for this grade, it is important that teachers scrutinize the material used in teaching