What is guided reading?
Guided reading is an instructional approach where a teacher works with a small group of students who are at a similar reading level. The goal is to provide tailored support and instruction to help students develop specific reading strategies and improve their reading skills. Here’s how guided reading typically works:
- Small Groups: Students are grouped based on their reading levels or specific needs. Each group usually consists of 4-6 students.
- Selection of Texts: The teacher selects texts that are at the instructional level of the group. These texts should be challenging but still accessible, providing opportunities for growth.
- Pre-Reading Activities: Before reading, the teacher might discuss the title, cover, and any pictures, and introduce key vocabulary. This helps activate prior knowledge and set a purpose for reading.
- Reading the Text: Students read the text individually but within the small group setting. This can be done silently or softly aloud. The teacher may listen in and provide immediate support and feedback.
- Guided Support: The teacher guides the students through the text, prompting them to use reading strategies such as predicting, questioning, clarifying, and summarizing. This helps students tackle difficult words and understand the text.
- Discussion and Analysis: After reading, the group discusses the text. The teacher may ask questions to deepen comprehension, encourage critical thinking, and connect the text to the students’ experiences.
- Follow-Up Activities: The teacher may provide activities that reinforce the skills and strategies practiced during the reading session. This could include writing responses, further reading, or engaging in related projects.
Guided reading aims to build confident, independent readers by providing them with the tools and strategies they need to understand and enjoy texts. It allows for differentiated instruction, ensuring that each student receives the level of support they need to progress.