Patricia Graham- Blog Post 5- Routman Ch. 10

I enjoyed reading the chapter on Guided Reading as it is an important learning context in which “the teacher builds on students’ strengths and supports and demonstrates whatever is necessary to move the child toward independence.”  The guided practice is an integral aspect of guided reading though it is essential as the teacher to provide demonstrations and support initially.  Though the chapter mentions flexible grouping in the upper grades, I feel that ability groups works very well in second grade as students are learning to read by using a variety of reading strategies and make meaning of the text. 

One personal struggle I have with guided reading is choosing quality books or resources for my groups.  Though we have the library, literacy closet, and Mrs. Thompson’s personal class library, it is often difficult finding numerous copies of recent books that will “adequately support the students as readers.”

Below are several important points mentioned in the chapter that reaffirm my views and are best practices dealing with literacy instruction.

·        Reading instruction does not have to be limited to your reading block- it can be integrated and go across the entire curriculum.

·        Independent reading needs to be a main priority in reading instruction.

·        Teachers must explicitly model what students are expected to do and students need to spend most of their time reading.

·        Reading responses should be limited and not take up a lot of time.