How can a teacher best support a student struggling with reading comprehension in literary texts?

Conducting small group discussions about text elements effectively supports a student struggling with reading comprehension in literary texts. This approach creates an interactive learning environment where students can articulate their thoughts, ask questions, and share insights. Small group discussions enable the teacher to guide students through key components of the text, such as character development, plot structure, and themes, fostering a deeper understanding.

Engaging in dialogue allows students to build comprehension skills collaboratively, as they can clarify misunderstandings and explore different perspectives with peers. This method promotes critical thinking, enhances motivation, and helps students connect personally with the material, which is essential for improving their comprehension of literary texts.

In contrast, the other methods may not directly address the comprehension difficulties. Independent reading time might isolate the student without the necessary scaffolding to understand the material. Similarly, worksheets focused on vocabulary might improve word recognition but don't necessarily help students understand the text as a whole. Focusing exclusively on summary skills could limit the exploration of deeper narrative elements, which are crucial for understanding literature.