What is a key characteristic of guided reading?

Guided reading is characterized by instruction that is tailored to meet the needs of a small group of students who are at similar reading levels. This approach allows the teacher to provide targeted support and differentiate instruction based on the specific strengths and weaknesses of the group members, promoting effective learning and skill development. In guided reading sessions, the teacher can select appropriate texts that match the students' reading abilities and facilitate discussions that enhance comprehension and fluency. This personalized approach fosters a collaborative learning environment, enabling students to engage with the text and with each other while developing their reading skills together.

The other options do not align with the principles of guided reading. For instance, reading in isolation would not allow for the tailored interaction and support that guided reading emphasizes. Additionally, when all students read the same text without support, it does not consider the varied needs of diverse learners, which is a key component of guided reading. Finally, a primarily teacher-led approach with no student interaction contradicts the collaborative nature of guided reading, where student engagement and discussion are integral to the process.