What is the role of guided reading in literacy instruction?

Guided reading plays a crucial role in literacy instruction by delivering tailored instruction based on students' individual reading levels. This approach allows educators to address the specific needs of each student through small group instruction, where teachers can focus on particular skills and strategies that match the students’ current capabilities.

In guided reading sessions, teachers select texts that are appropriate for the group's reading level, facilitating a supportive environment where students can practice their decoding, comprehension, and fluency skills. The teacher provides guidance, prompts, and feedback during these sessions, which helps students develop their reading skills progressively.

By customizing the instruction based on reading levels, guided reading effectively fosters a student's growth as a reader, allowing them to build confidence and improve their skills at their own pace. This individualized approach contrasts with the other options, which do not emphasize the personalized support that guided reading offers.