Guided reading: An effective model for the middle grades''''Strategic grouping can transform reading instruction in the middle ''grades from a hit-or-miss learning experience to a targeted, responsive ''one. This book features a practical and field-tested model for small ''group differentiated reading instruction in Grades 4u8. The authors ''offer a clear, detailed discussion of how to position this instruction ''inside middle school language arts or reading classrooms, and simple, ''effective strategies for classroom management, groupings, and ''assessment. The authors explain how to:a ''Balance brief strategic reading lessons with whole-class workStructure and guide reading groups consistentlyAssess students before and during reading groupsCue students and gauge understanding as they read''Differentiating instruction is not the flavor of the month in education;'' rather, it is the essential orientation for maximizing student success.'' Strategic Reading Groups gives teachers the tools they need to ''differentiate reading instruction in the critical middle years, as ''students begin to read more complex, content-filled narrative and ''informative texts.

Guided reading is a staple of elementary literacy instruction, yet planning and conducting reading groups can be time consuming and challenging. This hands-on book presents an innovative approach to guided reading that is manageable even for teachers who are new to small-group, differentiated reading instruction. Numerous classroom examples illustrate how to organize groups and select suitably challenging materials, structure group sessions, provide scaffolding and cues while listening to students read, and balance small-group with whole-class instruction. Special features include scheduling aids and lists of common cues for beginning and older readers, as well as suggestions for further reading at the end of each chapter.