What is the primary focus of guided reading sessions?

The primary focus of guided reading sessions is on targeted small-group instruction. In this instructional approach, teachers work with a small group of students who are at similar reading levels and provide tailored support to develop their reading skills. This method allows educators to give focused attention to individual student needs, facilitate discussions about texts, and engage in strategic teaching that aligns with the specific abilities and challenges of the group.

While whole-class literacy instruction aims to engage all students as a larger unit, it lacks the personalized attention that small-group guided reading provides. Assessment of student reading levels is critical for grouping and understanding student needs, but it is not the central purpose of the guided reading sessions themselves. Providing audiovisual aids can enhance learning but is not the foundational goal of guided reading, which prioritizes direct interaction and close reading practices with texts in a supportive environment.