Laura Riemensnider’s Blog post # 7 Routman, Reading Essentials, Ch. 10: Examine Guided Reading

Laura Riemensnider’s Blog post # 7 Routman, Reading Essentials, Ch. 10:  Examine Guided Reading

  I knew that this chapter would be of great interest to me since I have spent the past decade working with small group instruction with programs that are based off of guided reading principles. In her first few paragraphs Routman encourages teachers to look at guided reading more globally, not just within small group instruction. She also speaks to using caution when grouping and using flexible grouping.  I have always encouraged the same when working with teachers. We have programs at our school that already have the kids in leveled groups, so flexible grouping would a good way to address the individual needs of the students during reading workshop. Choosing books for guided reading can be a bit of a challenge, so I like the lists of tips and the try it, apply it sections of this chapter. These would make great references for teachers embarking on guided reading or just evaluating their collection of books. As would the sections on classroom management during guided reading. A common question is “how can I work well with a small group when they are in a classroom full of kids doing other things?” Routman gives some great suggestions and explicit tips to help. In fact as I went through this chapter, I realized this chapter alone would be a good one to copy and use as a resource for teachers who are beginning guided reading groups or just want some support in their small group instruction.