DORA uses two calculation methods to generate its Fountas and Pinnell (GR) equivalency scores.
Use Comprehension Sub-test Conversion (GR v1): This method is best when trying to estimate a student's independent reading level when a school's books are leveled with GR scores. It is a straight conversion from DORA's comprehension score to a GR score. However, keep in mind that in general, DORA is a harder assessment because it uses non-fiction passages, has longer passages as the readability level goes up, and does not allow the user to look back at the passage when answering questions. Teachers need to use their judgment when applying the DORA equivalency GR score to a student. If the student is reading topics in which he or she is very interested, the GR level of the books can be higher.
Multiple Sub-Test Conversion (GR v2):
This method tries to estimate the GR score when the goal is to replace a fluency test. Oral reading, of course, is very different from a test like DORA, and Let's Go Learn sees fluency as an additional sub-test. Our own fluency paper-and-pencil assessment is considered the 8th sub-test of DORA. This method uses the decoding and comprehension sub-tests to estimate a GR score.
DORA Equivalency Conversion Chart