EXAMPLE 01A parent walkthrough
“When the bees returned, they were exhausted.” What does “they” refer to?
Say: Look backwards for the plural noun it points to.
The bees.
Say: “They” refers to the bees.
FINAL ANSWER
The bees
READING LEVEL FI
Reference Words & Question Analysis — Level FI Parent Guide
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Precision reading: tracking referring words to what they point to, recognising restatement and examples, and — critically — understanding exactly what a question requires before answering it.
Grade 6 (approx. ages 11–12) · approximate gradeTHE DEFINITION
What is Kumon Reading Level FI?
Kumon Reading Level FI (Reference Words & Question Analysis) is the 17th of 26 levels in the Kumon reading program, where children learn precision reading: tracking referring words to what they point to, recognising restatement and examples, and — critically — understanding exactly what a question requires before answering it. It typically aligns with grade 6 (approx. ages 11–12) reading work, though Kumon places children by ability rather than age, so the grade is a guide, not a rule.
Level FI builds directly on Reading Level EII: Cause, Effect & Imagery and prepares children for Reading Level FII: Concision & Condensing Text. It is one of 26 Kumon reading levels covered in this independent parent guide series.
This is an independent parent guide, not an official curriculum or placement assessment. Topics and pace can vary; your child's instructor can confirm their current work.
- Reference tracking (it, they, this, those)
- Restatement recognition
- Example versus main point
- Question analysis before answering
- Precise comprehension
- Vocabulary for paraphrase
How do I help my child with Level FI?
Read one passage together, then let your child try the next one alone. A few small exercises to try together — let your child attempt each one first, then use these prompts when they need a nudge.
Original examples written for parents — not scanned worksheets or reproduced passages.
EXAMPLE 02A parent walkthrough
The question says: “Give TWO reasons.” What must the answer contain?
Say: Read the question before reading the passage.
Say: Two reasons — not one, not three.
Say: Underline the word “two” so it isn't missed.
FINAL ANSWER
Exactly two reasons
How can parents support Level FI?
Short, calm, and daily beats long and pressured. These small habits make Level FI stick — pick one and start tonight.
Misreading the question is the number-one mark-loser at FI
Teach: underline the command word — explain, list, compare
Reference words are signposts; track them with a finger while reading
A LITTLE MORE CLARITY