PIRLS 2021 Recruitment

Why Your Participation Matters

The Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) is an international assessment and research project designed to measure trends in reading achievement at the fourth-grade level as well as school and teacher practices related to instruction. PIRLS informs national discussions on education policy and international competitiveness, so it is important for selected schools in the PIRLS sample to participate. When students participate and give their best effort, PIRLS gets the most accurate measure possible of student achievement; this cannot be done without your cooperation.

Impact of COVID-19 on the PIRLS 2021 Administration

Due to various coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic-related risks associated with conducting PIRLS in the spring of the 2020–21 school year, the United States has opted to administer PIRLS in fall 2021, when current fourth-grade cohort of U.S. students comparable to their international peers will be starting fifth grade.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose significant challenges for state agencies, districts, and schools. PIRLS representatives’ top priority is protecting the health and safety of students and school staff. Our COVID-19 mitigation protocols have been developed using CDC guidelines and the input of health professionals. PIRLS representatives will work with districts and schools to ensure their individual COVID-19 protocols are also followed.

• PIRLS COVID-19 Protocols (473 KB)

Participation Resources

• PIRLS FAQ for Schools (320 KB)
• PIRLS FAQ for Parents (English) (255 KB)
• PIRLS FAQ for Parents (Spanish) (255 KB)
• PIRLS Brochure (2.2 MB)
• PIRLS Summary of School Activities (2.5 MB)