Final answer:
Students are considered to be at an instructional level in reading when they can understand the text with some support but still need guidance and instruction.
Step-by-step explanation:
On an informal reading assessment, students are considered to be at an instructional level when they can understand the text with some support but still need guidance and instruction to fully comprehend the material. They may struggle with unfamiliar vocabulary, complex sentence structures, or understanding the main ideas and details of the text. For example, they might be able to answer basic comprehension questions or identify key details, but may need help with making inferences or analyzing the author's purpose. It is important for students to be at an instructional level to ensure that they are challenged enough to grow their reading skills, but not overwhelmed to the point of frustration.