We’ve upgraded IXL LevelUp Diagnostic Benchmark for ELA, so students can show what they know in less time!
Reading and Writing & Language are now combined into a single LevelUp ELA assessment. Because reading and writing skills are closely connected, LevelUp ELA can continue measuring student performance rigorously while providing the same trusted insights in a shorter experience.
Students will see the same familiar format and question types, and educators will continue to receive meaningful ELA insights, including an overall ELA score, strand-level insights, and personalized recommendations.
This update is now live in your account, just in time for the new school year.
Frequently asked questions
Why did IXL make this change?
IXL’s psychometrics team analyzed student performance across the Reading and Writing & Language assessments and found that they strongly inform each other. Because of this, the LevelUp ELA Benchmark can measure both areas accurately within a single assessment.
This enhancement is designed to create a more engaging testing experience and reduce time spent on the assessment–all while delivering the same robust data you rely on today.
How long does the updated LevelUp ELA assessment take?
The updated LevelUp ELA Benchmark provides overall ELA levels in 75 minutes or less for PK-5 and 90 minutes or less for grades 6+.
Can I still assign Reading or Writing & Language separately?
No, LevelUp ELA is now a single, combined assessment. You will still see insights into Reading performance, Writing & Language performance, and individual ELA strands.
Will my reports look different?
No, there will not be any differences to your data within IXL Analytics.
Will historical scores for the separate tests remain available?
Yes, if students previously took a Reading-only or Writing & Language-only Benchmark, that strand-level data will remain available.
Can I compare scores from before and after this change?
Yes, the same strands are included in the enhanced ELA Benchmark, so educators can continue comparing results year to year.
Are accommodations still supported?
Yes, the same extended time and audio support accommodations are still available.
Will students notice a difference?
Students will have the same familiar testing experience–just in a shorter overall assessment.