Tips for Teachers and Parents: Guided Reading Instruction
Tips for Teachers and Parents: Guided Reading Instruction
The idea behind guided reading instruction is to use small group reading time with students and the teacher that will help to prepare the children for more successful independent reading time. This is accomplished through teaching students skills during guided reading time that will teach them how to read effectively for meaning and enjoy the reading process. Sometimes guided reading instruction is a good idea for older children as well, when they must relearn their reading skills for purely information gathering purposes. But in order to effectively teach guided reading instruction, there are some guidelines for teachers and parents to follow.
The Size and Duration of the Group
Guided reading instruction tends to work best when it is one in smaller groups of around three to six children. A good rule of thumb when it comes to the size of the groups for guided reading instruction is the younger the children, the smaller the group size. The students should all be at a very similar reading level, and the instructor should find out if any of the children have read the book before. Each child should have his own copy of the book to read from. The best length of time for guided reading instruction is 15-20 minutes. Again, younger children may need a shorter period of time, while older students can handle a longer lesson.
Three Steps in Guided Reading Instruction
During guided reading instruction, the teacher will lead the students through three basic steps. The first is the pre-reading step, which will include discussing the title, making predictions about what the book is about and finding a compelling reason to open up and read the story. The actual reading step may be done out loud or silently, but the teacher should observe the students carefully as they read, and be ready to jump in with prompts that will encourage students to summarize what they are reading and make predictions as to what they think might happen next. Finally, the post-reading step of guided reading instruction will incorporate a discussion of how the students felt about the story and a brief summary to test for comprehension.
This guided reading instruction does not only have to occur in the school environment. Parents who are familiar with the strategies can help their children at home as well. A good reader will make a better student, so you can never work with your kids too much when it comes to reading.