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Virginia Literacy Partnership

Virginia Language & Literacy Screener, VALLS: Pre-K is a screening tool that measures young children’s language and literacy development. For 4-year-olds, the screener contains subtests that measure five broad skills, which impact later reading achievement: 

  • Alphabet Knowledge: knowledge of letter names and letter sounds 
  • Phonological Awareness: the ability to play with and hear the sounds of language 
  • Language Comprehension: showing understanding of a story by using words (expressive) and by using gestures like pointing (receptive) 
  • Emergent Writing: ability to write their name 
  • Print Concepts: understanding of how print, books, and writing work

Results are used to determine individual children’s learning goals, plan classroom instruction, and raise awareness of children who need additional support or instruction in early reading and literacy.

Pals K 3 logo

Pals K -3

Phonological Awareness Literacy Screening, PALS-K-3 is a screening tool of young children’s literacy development which has been used for over twenty years with students in Virginia. Results are used to determine individual children’s learning goals, plan classroom instruction, and raise awareness of children who need additional support or instruction in early reading and literacy. 

Focusing on early detection and early intervention of reading difficulties is a required state-wide policy (Early Intervention Reading Initiative). The PALS-K-3 screening tool is a way to help schools and teachers meet that mandate.  

Identified K-3 students are required by the Early Intervention Reading Initiative (EIRI) to receive 2.5 hours of additional instruction per week above and beyond regular classroom instruction. 

Divisions and schools determine how intervention is provided. The 2.5 hours per week may include time with a person or a program, or a combination of the two. 

Resources for families may be located at Virginia Literacy Partnerships