National Lexile Study: Achieve3000 and Actively Learn 2019-2020

The study examines the impact of Actively Learn and Achieve3000 Literacy, two digital supplemental literacy programs developed by McGraw Hill, on student reading growth during the 2019–2020 school year. These programs are designed for students in grades 3–12, with Actively Learn focusing on deeper learning in ELA, science, and social studies, and Achieve3000 Literacy providing differentiated instruction to improve literacy skills. The study analyzed data from 17,285 students across various schools and districts, though specific regional or school type details are not provided.

The methodology involved correlational analysis of Lexile growth, a measure of reading ability, with students’ engagement and performance in Actively Learn and Achieve3000 Literacy. Lexile scores were derived from Achieve3000 Literacy’s LevelSet assessment and adjusted monthly based on student performance in embedded assessments. Students were grouped by their grades on Actively Learn’s short-answer and multiple-choice questions (Low: <55%, Mid: 55–75%, High: >75%) and by their engagement in Achieve3000 Literacy activities.

Results showed statistically significant positive correlations between higher grades in Actively Learn and greater Lexile growth, with effect sizes ranging from small to medium (Cohen’s d = 0.2–0.6). Students with higher engagement in Actively Learn consistently demonstrated larger gains in reading ability, regardless of their level of Achieve3000 Literacy usage. The study highlights the importance of active engagement with instructional content in improving reading comprehension.</p>