A placement test is used for initial assignment of students by performance level. The pace of instruction is set according to the performance level of each group. Since Direct Instruction relies so heavily on grouping students by achievement levels, frequent assessment of student progress is essential. According to the developer, teachers monitor student performance every five to 10 days, using such methods as calculating reading rates and error ratios. These data, as well as weekly grades, are used to regroup students according to level.
Schools also continue to use state and locally mandated achievement tests.
Family and Community Involvement. Direct Instruction does not require family or community involvement. However, the developers recommend involving parents, by having parents use a Parent and Child Home Practice Guide to work on their child's skills at home. Professional development and technical assistance, consisting of training and in-class coaching, are essential elements of Direct Instruction. The developer recommends one week of training in Direct Instruction methods prior to implementation.