Why I Support Guided Reading (And Why You Should Too)

Guided reading has recently gotten a bad rap, largely due to its association with outdated reading practices. But let's shift our perspective and call it what it truly is: direct reading. And trust me, it's more beneficial for your teaching than you might think.

Direct reading involves closely monitoring students' reading progress, providing them with guidance and support to ensure success. This approach is crucial for teaching students how to read effectively, and research backs it up.

Incorporating directed reading into your lessons is essential. Whether it's monitoring reading progress, teaching vocabulary in context, practicing oral fluency, or enhancing comprehension skills, directed reading covers all bases. And rest assured, it's all grounded in research.

I advocate for integrating directed reading as a fundamental component of literacy instruction, despite its divergence from contemporary trends. This is why I include directed reading in my 5 step reading lesson plan. Read about my 5 step lesson plan and how I incorporate directed reading here: https://www.missraesroom.com/myfivestepreadinglessonplan.html 

It's time to embrace the enduring benefits of guided reading under its new name: direct reading.

To learn more about implementing directed reading principles into your lessons, check out Timothy Shanahan's insightful blog post here: https://www.shanahanonliteracy.com/blog/does-research-support-guided-reading-practical-advice-on-directing-reading

Let's reclaim the value of guided reading and empower our students to become proficient readers.

Happy Teaching!
Miss Rae