Tips for Teaching Reading

The current research regarding how children learn to read is ongoing, and implications for best teaching continue to change. Below you will find ten research based best practices from Best Practices in Literacy Instruction, edited by Gambrell, Morrow, Neuman, and Pressley (1999).
  1. Teach reading for authentic meaning-making literacy experiences: for pleasure, to be informed, and to perform a task.
  2. Use high quality literature.
  3. Integrate a comprehensive word study/phonics program into reading/writing instruction.
  4. Use multiple texts that link and expand concepts.
  5. Balance teacher-led and student-led discussions.
  6. Build a whole class community that emphasizes important concepts and builds background knowledge.
  7. Work with students in small groups while other students read and write about what they have read.
  8. Give students plenty of time to read in class.
  9. Give students direct instruction in decoding and comprehension strategies that promote independent reading. Balance direct instruction, guided instruction, and independent learning.
  10. Use a variety ot assessment techniques to inform instruction.