Hi,

I'm not sure what Jane or Julie's reading level is, but keep in mind that a grade level equivalent given on an achievement test is not actually the grade level the child is reading at. In the example you give, the grade equivalent reading level of 8.6 means that the child scored as well as an eighth grader would have taking the same test. (I hope I am stating this correctly! If I am not, please feel free to correct me!) In any case, this is explained better on the Hoagie's web site - check out this article:

http://www.hoagiesgifted.org/tests_tell_us.htm

I hope this helps!