Think of the CLOVER Screener like a temperature reading for decoding ability.

A normal temperature means all is well. A high temperature tells you exactly what needs attention and where to start.

CLOVER works the same way, giving parents and educators a clear picture of which syllable patterns a child has mastered and which ones need support.

It is not a full diagnosis. It is a precise, actionable snapshot that tells you where to start.

Documentation provided:  Each screener includes a printable score card and a concise report to help interpret results and guide instruction.

C.L.O.V.E.R. is the name of the screener and a mnemonic representing the six syllable types. The screener, developed by Reading with Ms. Joy, uses over 100 carefully selected real and nonsense words to evaluate students’ mastery of these foundational patterns. While the word list is original, the screener is informed by Smartt & Glaser’s (2010) evidence-based framework, a structured literacy model.

This structured literacy model emphasizes explicit instruction in syllable types, systematic practice, and effective decoding strategies, making it a precise, targeted snapshot of foundational decoding ability.  Research shows that knowledge of these six syllable types enables readers to decode approximately 85% of English words (Reading Rockets, 2023). The word list focuses on regular sound–letter correspondences, which make up about 75–85% of the English writing system, as described by researchers like Louisa Moats. Irregular or ambiguous spellings are intentionally excluded to keep the focus on essential decoding skills.

The screener measures decoding accuracy using both real and nonsense words. Nonsense words ensure students rely on decoding skills rather than memory or guessing. It does not assess reading speed or fluency.

The score card includes a proprietary scoring system that provides percentile rankings by syllable type, helping identify which patterns may need more targeted support. Developed by Reading with Ms. Joy, this system offers clear, actionable feedback to inform instruction.

The importance of syllable type instruction is supported by major education organizations, including the National Education Association (NEA) and the International Dyslexia Association (IDA), which highlight the role of syllable types in effective reading instruction.

For more information, visit the IDA resource:
Effective Reading Instruction for Students with Dyslexia 

READ MORE ABOUT CLOVER HERE

© 2024 Reading with Ms. Joy. All Rights Reserved. The CLOVER screener, scoring system, percentile rankings, and reports are proprietary to Reading with Ms. Joy and may not be reproduced, adapted, or used without written permission.