In the latest episode of "High Impact Strategies for Struggling Readers, Years 3 to 6," Sharon introduces a proven technique to support struggling readers called Paired Reading. This approach, developed by researcher Keith Topping, offers a structured yet flexible way to enhance reading skills through one-on-one interactions. Here's a detailed guide on how teachers can implement paired reading effectively in their classrooms.
Understanding the Context
Sharon emphasises the importance of recognising that struggling readers have diverse needs. Simply labelling a child as struggling or dyslexic doesn't provide enough information to tailor support effectively. Teachers need to identify specific challenges, whether in decoding, comprehension, or fluency, to choose the right interventions. Paired reading is one such intervention that can significantly benefit certain students, especially when implemented thoughtfully.
What is Paired Reading?
Paired reading involves an adult and a student reading a text together. Unlike buddy reading, where peers read together, paired reading usually requires an adult, such as a teacher, classroom assistant, or volunteer, to ensure consistency and effectiveness. This strategy helps students engage with texts slightly above their independent reading level, promoting skill development in a supportive environment.
Getting Started with Paired Reading
- Book Selection: The student chooses a book, ideally one that interests them. This choice is crucial as it motivates them to engage with the text.
- Interest and Appropriateness: The adult shows genuine interest in the chosen book and helps the student assess its difficulty using the five-finger test. This involves the student attempting to read five random words on a page; if they struggle with no more than five words, the book is considered appropriate for paired reading.
- Consistency: Aim for three sessions per week, each lasting 10-15 minutes. This frequency ensures consistent practice without overwhelming the student.
The Paired Reading Process
- Sitting Side by Side: The adult and student sit next to each other, both looking at the book. This physical arrangement facilitates shared reading and easy communication.
- Reading Together: Both start reading aloud together, matching the student's pace but gently encouraging a more fluent reading style if necessary. The adult models fluent reading, helping the student to keep up.
- Non-Verbal Signals: The student uses an agreed-upon non-verbal signal, such as a nudge or a tap, to indicate when they want to read alone. This empowers the student and keeps the flow of reading smooth.
- Error Correction: If the student struggles with a word, the adult waits five seconds before providing the correct word, which the student then repeats. This pause encourages the student to attempt self-correction first.
- Specific Praise: The adult praises the student specifically for their efforts and successes, such as accurately decoding a difficult word or using a reading strategy effectively.
Benefits of Paired Reading
Paired reading offers several advantages:
- Increased Motivation: By choosing their own books and receiving immediate, specific feedback, students often feel more motivated to read.
- Improved Fluency: The consistent practice and modelling of fluent reading help students read more smoothly.
- Enhanced Comprehension: Discussing the book before, during, and after reading helps students understand and engage with the text.
- Confidence Building: Regular praise and successful reading experiences boost students' confidence in their reading abilities.
Practical Considerations
- Training and Support: Teachers should train classroom assistants or volunteers to use the paired reading method consistently. This ensures that the strategy is implemented effectively even when the teacher is not directly involved.
- Monitoring Progress: Keep records of each session, noting the student's progress and any difficulties encountered. This helps in adjusting the approach as needed.
- Duration and Review: Typically, paired reading is used for around 10 weeks, with regular reviews to assess its effectiveness and decide whether to continue or adjust the strategy.
Adaptability and Professional Judgment
While paired reading is a structured method, it's important for teachers to adapt it to the needs of individual students. Observing and responding to students' progress and challenges ensures that the intervention remains effective. Sharon highlights the importance of using professional judgment to modify the approach based on ongoing observations and feedback.
Conclusion
Paired reading is a valuable tool in the arsenal of strategies for supporting struggling readers. By involving students in choosing books, providing structured yet flexible support, and fostering an encouraging reading environment, teachers can help students (particularly struggling readers) make significant strides in their reading abilities. This method not only improves technical reading skills but also enhances overall confidence and enjoyment in reading