Variations such as Literature Circles and Reader's Theater

    The Guided Reading Approach works well for all grades K-5. The younger grades K-3 typically will follow the traditional lessons that were described earlier. As the students become more fluent readers that are ready for silent reading (grades 3+) variations such as Literature Circles and Reader's Theater work well.

Literature Circles

    Traditionally in Literature Circles the students choose the books they want to read and discuss. Often the groups all meet simultaneously. I recommend having the groups meet one at a time at the Guided Reading table. Within the groups each student selected a specific job for each chapter. The jobs (such as Discussion Director, Art Director, Word Finder Director, Summary Director, Connector Director, and Read-Aloud Director) all helped to develop comprehension and spark discussion among the students. The rotations among the Practice Zones, Silent Reading, and Seatwork continued as previously described.

Reader's Theater

    Reader’s Theater is a reading performance activity in which children’s books are rewritten into scripts using the book characters as roles. It is preferred as a strategy for improving oral reading fluency and comprehension. The classroom continues to follow the guided reading format; but, now, instead of reading books during Guided Reading time, the groups practice their plays. An excellent source for Reader's Theater plays is www.readinglady.com .