What can diagnostic tests measure?

Diagnostic tests are specifically designed to assess a range of reading, language, or cognitive skills in students. This type of testing focuses on identifying strengths and weaknesses in these areas, allowing educators to tailor instruction and interventions to meet individual learning needs. By pinpointing specific skills such as phonemic awareness, vocabulary knowledge, and comprehension strategies, diagnostic tests provide valuable insights that inform instructional decisions.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the primary purpose of diagnostic tests. General academic performance encompasses a broader range of subjects and skills rather than focusing specifically on reading and language abilities. Measuring the speed of reading comprehension may be a part of evaluating reading skills but does not provide the comprehensive skill assessment that diagnostic tests aim for. Finally, assessing student interest in literature falls outside the realm of reading skill measurement, concentrating instead on personal preferences rather than cognitive or language capabilities.