The Literacy Link: Examining the Correlation Between Reading Proficiency and Social Studies Performance on the Kentucky Summative Assessment

This study sought to determine if a correlation exists between 5th and 8th grade reading scores and 5th and 8th grade social studies scores on the KSA. The objectives for this research are threefold: 1) to identify the structure of the KSA for Social Studies; 2) to determine whether specific reading skills are necessary to achieve proficiency or distinguished performance; and 3) to determine whether the KSA for Social Studies is effectively aligned with the 5th and 8th grade Kentucky Academic Standards for Social Studies. A corollary purpose for this research is to generalize how instructional practice has changed as teachers prepare their students for the end – of – year assessment in social studies. Using KSA data from the 2023-2024 school year, assessment results were collected from 129 schools within Morehead State University’s (MSU) 22 county service regions. Fifth and eighth grades were selected because both grade levels are assessed in the same content areas, English language arts and social studies, while falling within the middle grades band (grades 5–9). Examining these two grade levels allowed for analysis at both the entry and exit points of the middle grades. This research was conducted using data from schools within MSU’s 22 county service region, therefore the findings have a direct and immediate impact at the local level. District leaders, administrators, and teachers in this region can use the results to better understand the relationship between reading proficiency and social studies performance on the KSA. Beyond the local context, the findings have important implications statewide. As the KSA is administered consistently across the Commonwealth, insights gained from this regional analysis may be used to inform broader conversations regarding assessment alignment and literacy demands within content-area assessments.