PIRLS 2006 is the second in a cycle of internationally comparative reading assessments carried out every five years. Conducted at the fourth grade, this world-wide assessment and research project is designed to measure trends in children’s reading literacy achievement and collect information about the policy and practices related to learning to read and reading instruction. For example, PIRLS 2006 will provide information on the impact of the home environment on reading achievement and how parents can foster reading literacy. It also will provide extensive information about curriculum and classroom approaches to reading instruction.