Health Literacy Assessment of Fifth and Sixth Grade Students at Two Schools in Tucson, Arizona Using the REALM-Teen: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

Specific Aims: Fifth and 6th grade students at two schools in Tucson, Arizona were assessed using the Rapid Estimate of Adolescent Literacy in Medicine (REALM-Teen) to increase awareness of the need of childhood health literacy. Methods: After receiving permission from the two schools, the parents and the students, assessment by the REALM-Teen determined if the children were at, above, or below grade level. Main Results: Ninety-eight students were assessed of 183 possible (53.6%). Eighty-four were at or above grade level (85.7%), 14 were below (14.3%). Fifty-seven 5th graders were assessed of 90 (63.3%); of the 46 (of 72) in public school, 40 were at or above grade level (86.9%) and 6 were below (13.1%); of the 11 (of 18) in private school,9 were at or above grade level (81.8%) and 2 were below (18.2%). Forty-one 6th graders were assessed of 93 (44.1%); of the 34 (of 84) in public school, 28 were at or above grade level (82.4%) and 6 were below (17.6%); of the 7 (of 9) in private school 7 were at or above grade level (100%). Chi-square analyses showed no statistical significance between health literacy outcomes and gender, school type or prior health knowledge. Conclusion: Most (85.7%) students assessed were at grade level or higher for health literacy, which supports standards being taught and reached. That 14 students fell below grade level at the time of assessment as well as the high percentage of students not assessed (46.4%) emphasizes need for more health education and assessment.