How to Improve Reading in Children Reading Below Grade Level

From early childhood through middle and high school, far too many students struggle with proficiency in literacy and read below their grade level. No one individual can remedy the deficit in literacy, but caregivers and teachers together can make a positive impact. Teachers can differentiate instruction as needed while caregivers follow specific strategies outside of the classroom. Achieving literacy is a critical education priority, because without it children cannot reach their full potential.

Collect information about students who have been identified as reading below their grade level. Teachers gather the data from work sampling, tests, observations and anecdotal information from caregivers.

Create small, homogeneous groups of students in the classroom. Provide a daily 30-minute book activity that focuses on literacy. Have the children use a composition book and use a pen to record their assignments. Attend workshops and in-service training sessions to develop new strategies to use in small groups. Encourage parents and caregivers to reinforce specific objectives that the students are currently learning in class.

Promote vocabulary learning by focusing on terminology used throughout the curriculum. Create a print-rich environment, especially in early childhood and lower elementary grades. Challenge caregivers to encourage the child to recognize key vocabulary words in their home and neighborhood.

Integrate academic English into daily lessons and begin to do so in the early grades. Students should use their composition book for their work. Evaluate the work sampling once per month.

Arrange for peer-tutoring in the classroom. Students may read together and collaborate to complete activities. Use colorful stickers on their work as a reward.