Question

Which of the following instructional strategies is best for a first-grade teacher to use with emergent readers?

A. Teaching a minilesson on a specific skill and asking students to complete independent practice of that skill
B. Demonstrating two or three reading objectives in one lesson and facilitating guided practice for each of the objectives
C. Designing a series of lessons with one reading objective and providing modeling, think-alouds, and guided practice of the objective
D. Providing students with time to read independently and helping them select books with proper leveling, content, and interest factors

Answer 1

The best instructional strategy for first-grade emergent readers is to focus on a single reading objective and provide scaffolding through modeling, think-alouds, and guided practice.

Step-by-step explanation:

For a first-grade teacher working with emergent readers, the most effective instructional strategy would be designing a series of lessons with one reading objective and providing modeling, think-alouds, and guided practice of the objective (Option C). This approach allows students to focus on mastering a single skill before moving on to another, which is crucial in early reading development. It also incorporates scaffolding, a vital component where the teacher gradually reduces support as the child becomes more proficient, ensuring that each student fully grasps the concept before advancing.

Using think-alouds, the teacher can demonstrate how to approach the reading process, sharing the internal dialogue that skilled readers have with themselves. This can help students understand and internalize reading strategies. Guided practice offers the necessary support and immediate feedback, which are essential for young learners as they develop their reading skills.