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Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA)
600 questions
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About this exam
The Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) was California’s reading-instruction assessment for teacher candidates seeking certain Multiple Subject or Education Specialist credentials. It evaluated whether candidates could support students’ reading development, including learners with diverse needs. For the 2027–2028 credential cycle, check the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) for the current requirement: California has been transitioning from RICA to a Literacy Performance Assessment, so RICA may not be the applicable route for new candidates.
RICA content covered foundations of reading development and instruction, phonological and phonemic awareness, the alphabetic principle, phonics, spelling patterns, syllable types, and word analysis. Candidates also needed to connect reading concepts to instruction and student needs, rather than rely on memorized definitions alone. If you are reviewing RICA materials, use them to strengthen these core skills, but confirm which assessment your credential program and the CTC currently accept. Occasional online multiple-choice practice can help check understanding after focused topic review.
How to prepare for California’s reading-instruction requirement
- Review the CTC’s current credential and literacy-assessment requirements first, and ask your preparation program which route applies to your 2027–2028 completion timeline.
- Study the foundations of reading development, phonological and phonemic awareness, the alphabetic principle, phonics, syllable types, spelling patterns, and word analysis; practice explaining how each supports instruction.
- Use timed questions or sample tasks to identify weak areas, then review why each answer is right or wrong. For any required performance assessment, follow the current official directions and scoring materials.
FAQ
Who takes the RICA in California?
RICA was intended for candidates pursuing certain Multiple Subject and Education Specialist teaching credentials in California. Requirements have changed as the state transitions to a Literacy Performance Assessment, so candidates should check the CTC and their credential program to learn which assessment applies to them.
What is the format of the RICA?
The legacy RICA offered a written examination and a video performance assessment. The format and availability relevant to a candidate depend on California’s current transition rules; consult the CTC for the accepted assessment and its current specifications.
What subjects are covered on the RICA?
RICA topics included reading development and instruction, phonological and phonemic awareness, the alphabetic principle, phonics, spelling, syllable types, and word analysis. Candidates should also confirm the content and expectations of the current California literacy assessment.