How is "text complexity" defined in the context of the CAASPP assessment?

In the context of the CAASPP assessment, "text complexity" is defined as the level of difficulty determined by both quantitative and qualitative measures. This comprehensive approach assesses various aspects of a text, including vocabulary, sentence structure, and overall coherence, along with the themes, content, and potential engagement a text may provoke in readers.

Quantitative measures might involve metrics such as word frequency and sentence length, while qualitative measures incorporate considerations like the complexity of ideas, the richness of the language, and the structure of the text itself. This dual framework acknowledges that understanding a text fully involves more than just its numerical data; it requires an appreciation of the intrinsic qualities that contribute to its complexity.

Choosing any other definition would overlook the multifaceted nature of how texts can be challenging. For example, considering only length or jargon ignores the important elements that contribute to a reader's experience, while suggesting that complexity applies solely to literary works dismisses the variety in texts that can present challenges to readers, including informational and technical texts. Thus, the correct understanding of text complexity encompasses a broader evaluation of difficulty beyond singular attributes.