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» Ski-&-Snowboard » Reading: "Leveled Reading: Gauging and Challenging Student Reading Skills"
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| Leveled Reading: Gauging and Challenging Student Reading Skills |
By:
HubertFernandes |
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Leveled reading is a method of ranking a student’s reading skills. Leveled books, based on grade levels, can then be assigned according to the specific reading skills of the student.
Leveled reading as a teaching tool
Grade levels are assigned K-12 (kindergarten through grade 12) based on the expected level of vocabulary and reading comprehension a person should have when at the age of a student in a particular grade. For example, an 11 year old student should normally be expected to be able to read and comprehend any books assigned a 3rd grade reading level.
However, not all students are always at the same level. Therefore, leveled reading should be used as a method to first assess the reading capabilities of a student, and then use that as a baseline to assign them reading materials. That a student tests below their grade level should not be reason for excess concern, rather it should be taken as an indicator that the student might require additional attention from a teacher or other instructor.
Likewise, students who test above their grade level should not be ignored. Without continued attention, students that excel may drop off if not challenged.
Challenging students without pushing
Once a student’s reading level has been determined, it’s appropriate to challenge the student with reading materials above their reading level. However, pushing a student too hard can often lead to frustration and a lack of interest. This accomplishes the opposite goal of improving their reading skills.
A combination of books at and above the student’s reading level should be used to challenge the student. Books below the student’s reading level should also be considered to allow an enjoyable reading experience. However, keep in mind that it the enjoyment of reading that is important. If a student particularly enjoys reading challenging books, then they should be allowed to choose more difficult reading materials.
Letting the student “drive”
Though at times it might be necessary for a teacher to specifically assign challenging books, generally students do a good job of selecting a mix of easy to challenging reading materials. By letting the student choose for themselves, or “drive” the process of leveled reading, they are able to choose materials that they have a particular interest in, thereby developing a child’s love of reading.
Author bio:- Hubert Fernandes is a senior teacher helping struggling readers and English language learners on bilingual education, ESL, youth bilingual education, guided reading, book leveled reading, educational technology, adolescent literacy, reading intervention.
Website:-http://teacher.scholastic.com/products/product_info/hub2.asp?catID=1&subcatID=8&level=2_subject&cname=Leveled%20Reading |
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