What is guided reading?

Guided reading is a teaching approach that focuses on providing support to small groups of students as they engage with texts that are at their instructional level. This method allows teachers to tailor their instruction depending on the specific needs of each group, which can vary based on their reading abilities and comprehension skills. During guided reading sessions, the teacher typically introduces the text, teaches strategies for understanding and analyzing it, and facilitates discussions to deepen comprehension. This approach helps to build students' reading skills in a structured yet flexible manner, promoting both independence and collaborative learning.

The emphasis on small groups ensures that the teacher can provide targeted guidance and immediate feedback, which is essential for developing reading proficiency and fostering a love for reading among students.