Guided Reading Group Texts
Using Guided Reading Groups:
Guided reading is a time for teachers to work with students in small
groups based on reading level.  It is a great tool for differentiation, but it
must be used correctly.  Some important guidelines are:
  • It should not be the only form of differentiation in the classroom.
  • All groups should be required to engage in higher order thinking.
  • Groups should be flexible.  Teachers should frequently
    reevaluate students to be sure they are in the best group.
  • Grouping in the classroom should not always be based on ability.
Reference:   
Castle, S. (2005). Flexible grouping and student learning in a high-needs
school. Education & Urban Society, 37(2), 139-150. Retrieved from Teacher
Reference Center database.

Below are suggested texts for four possible reading groups:

Advanced or Gifted
Fritz, J. (2004). The lost colony of Roanoke. New York: G. P. Putnam’s  
    Sons.
AR Level: 5.7

At Level
Fritz, J. (1989). George Washington’s breakfast. Boston, MA: Houghton
    Mifflin. (Original work published 1969)
AR Level: 4.1

Struggling or Below Level
Fritz, J. (1997). Just a Few Words, Mr. Lincoln. New York: Scholastic,
    Inc. (Original work published 1993).
AR Level: 2.9

English Language Learners
Fritz, J. (1997). George Washington's Mother. New York: Scholastic,
    Inc. (Original  work published 1992).
    AR Level: 2.5
    NOTE: Not all classrooms with have a Guided Reading group for English Language
    learners (ELLs), and not all English Language Learners will need an individual reading
    group.  Still, more and more teachers are finding they have the need for this group, and I
    have tried to include it with books available in both English and Spanish that are 1-2
    levels below grade level, though not all ELLs are Spanish-speakers and not all ELLs are
    at this particular level.
Unit 6: Jean Fritz
Lessons and Other Resources
by: Amy Fine