Brief explanation of AVI reading levels:
- E = eind (end), the final phase in each primary school year until the beginning of the next year.
- M = midden (middle), the phase around the middle of the school year.
As you can see, most reading levels always overlap with the next school year. This is because children advance in reading every year.
AVI-Start, M3 and E3: The Early Years
Learning to read well naturally begins with simple words. This is usually in group 3, right after kindergarten.
AVI M4 to M5: Building and Exploring
Have they mastered the basics? Then they are ready for the next reading level. Because every word and sentence now becomes a little more difficult. And if they haven't reached this reading level yet? Then take a step back first.
- Explanation of AVI reading level: Increase in complexity with longer sentences.
- Age: 7-9 years
- Primary school group: middle of group 4 up to and including middle of group 5.
AVI E5 to M6: The Middle Years of Reading Development
When children are further along in their reading development, they take another step. Because now they are words and sentences that form the basis for completely independent reading.
Explanation of AVI reading level:
- Explanation of AVI reading level: Advanced sentences and storylines.
- Age: 9-12 years.
- Primary school group: End of Group 5 up to and including middle of group 6.
AVI E6 to E7: Mastery and preparation for continued reading
At this reading level, they take another step. And now comes the preparation for secondary school.
- Explanation of AVI reading level: Advanced language and complex storylines.
- Age: Corresponding to group 7 and 8.
- Primary school group: end of group 6 up to and including end of group 7 and group 8.
AVI Plus
Explanation of AVI reading level: AVI Plus is the final reading level. Children reach this level in group 8. So children can then read more difficult books. But E7 is the average reading level in group 8. So don't worry if children don't reach this reading level.
Supportive Tips for Parents:
- Age-Appropriate Book Choice: Choose books that match the child's age and specific AVI level. But also pay attention to the child's interest.
- Involve the Teacher: Discuss the child's AVI levels with the teacher for targeted support. It is also important that reading remains fun.
- Reading Habits by Age: Adjust reading habits based on the child's age and AVI level. Because if the books become too difficult, they quickly lose interest.
- Encouraging Progress: Acknowledge the child's progress and encourage them to grow at their own pace. Because standing still is ultimately not good. And children must ultimately be well prepared for secondary school.
Explanation of AVI reading levels table
Do you want a brief overview of how AVI works? Here is a general guideline for the Netherlands:
| AVI reading level | Group | Indicative age* |
| AVI start | 3 | 5-6 years |
| AVI M3 | 3 | 6-7 years |
| AVI E3 | 3 / 4 | 6-8 years |
| AVI M4 | 4 | 7-8 years |
| AVI E4 | 4 / 5 | 7-9 years |
| AVI M5 | 5 | 8-9 years |
| AVI E5 | 5 / 6 | 8-10 years |
| AVI M6 | 6 | 9-10 years |
| AVI E6 | 6 / 7 | 9-11 years |
| AVI M7 | 7 / 8 | 10-11 years |
| AVI E7 | 7 / 8 | 10-12 years |
| AVI Plus | 8 | 11-12 years |
*Please note that these ages are indicative, and variations may occur. Some children may be older or younger within the same group, depending on their date of birth.
