Test Department

Drumcondra Tests of Early Literacy

The Drumcondra Tests of Early Literacy (DTEL) were created in response to demands for screening and diagnostic tests suitable for use with emerging readers, specifically those at the end of Senior Infants and the beginning of First Class who were experiencing some difficulty in learning to read. The Drumcondra Test of Early Literacy-Screening (DTEL-S) and the Drumcondra Test of Early Literacy-Diagnostic (DTEL-D) draw on international best practice in early reading assessment to provide tests suitable for the Irish context. The DTEL can complement a teacher’s observations and assessments of a child’s performance and increase understanding of particular difficulties. Its aim is to provide information on young children’s literacy difficulties so that instruction can be improved.

The Drumcondra Test of Early Literacy–Screening (DTEL-S) is designed for use with children at the end of Senior Infants or the beginning of First Class. The purpose of the test is to identify pupils who may be at risk of reading difficulties so that, if needed, further diagnostic assessment and targeted instruction can be implemented. The DTEL-S is divided into four parts and assesses two aspects of reading: word recognition  and comprehension. The test is suitable for use with groups of six to ten children and takes approximately 40 minutes to administer.

The Drumcondra Test of Early Literacy–Diagnostic (DTEL-D) is designed for use with children who may have a reading difficulty. It is recommended to administer the DTEL-D to children who have attained low scores on the DTEL Screening Test. The purpose of the DTEL-D Test is to identify specific reading and reading-related skills with which children may be experiencing difficulties. The test is individually administered and takes approximately 45 minutes to complete. The DTEL-D is divided into three parts: Phonological Awareness, Phonological Working Memory, and Knowledge of Letters and Letter Sounds.