A Lexile measure is a unit of measure for reading in English. Lexile measures are based on a developmental scale that describes both your reading ability and text complexity. When your Lexile measure and a text’s Lexile measure are closely matched, your reading practice is more effective because the text is not too easy or too hard.

A Lexile measure is indicated as a number followed by the letter “L” (for example, 1000L), and ranges from below 200L to above 1700L. Beginner-level readers and texts have low Lexile measures. Advanced-level readers and texts have high Lexile measures.

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Your Lexile measure describes your English reading ability. Texts at the right level for most readers range from 100L below their Lexile measure to 50L above it. For example, the optimal reading range for a 1000L reader is generally 900L to 1050L.

The Lexile measure of a text describes its level of complexity. Software analyzes its various dimensions to produce the Lexile measure of the text.

Hundreds of millions of books and articles have Lexile measures, and this number grows daily. You can browse reading recommendations at your level in your Library.

Your Lexile measure is based on your TOEIC Reading score. IIBC, ETS and MetaMetrics® conducted research in 2010 to enable a TOEIC Reading score in Japan to be converted into a Lexile measure. Your Lexile measure can help you strengthen your English skills.

Like any skill, improvement requires practice over time. Your English reading ability is no different. Lexile measures help you select the right texts that will make reading practice more effective.

• Browse your Library for book and article recommendations that match your reading level and interests.
• Use your Journal to create a reading list of your selections and to help manage your ongoing practice. You can keep track of your finished readings to help you monitor your reading activity over time.
• Spend at least 20 minutes reading every day. Choosing texts at your level provides an appropriate challenge to help improve your reading skills. Choosing texts on your favorite topics makes reading more enjoyable.

As your reading ability gradually increases, the recommended texts will become easier to comprehend. You can take another TOEIC test to update your Lexile measure and establish your new reading level.

Lexile measures were developed by MetaMetrics, a U.S.-based research organization. Our team is comprised of experienced scientists, educators, consultants and developers who share a common goal to improve teaching and learning the English language.