What is the purpose of guided or supported reading?

The purpose of guided or supported reading is to provide structured support from an experienced reader. This instructional approach is designed to facilitate the reading process by allowing students to engage with texts that are at or slightly above their current level of reading proficiency. An experienced teacher or tutor provides targeted assistance, strategies, and encouragement that help students develop their reading skills effectively.

Through this supportive environment, students receive immediate feedback, can ask questions, and are guided toward deeper comprehension of the text. This method emphasizes interaction and helps build confidence in students as they learn to tackle challenging material while still having the benefit of expert guidance to navigate difficult vocabulary and concepts.

By focusing on the student's needs and providing scaffolded support, guided reading helps enhance their reading fluency, comprehension, and overall engagement with literature, making it a vital component of effective reading instruction.