Turning the Page: Teachers’ Text Selection for Small Group Reading Instruction

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Wednesday 3:45pm
  In Poster Session: Research in Research and Literacy (SIG 11) Poster Session I

Abstract

This study examined the types of texts K–3 teachers in Michigan used during small group reading instruction, focusing on text type and genre. Drawing on social constructivist theory and the RAND Reading Study Group framework, a quantitative observational approach was used to analyze classroom videos from 63 teachers. Results showed that 72.7% of small groups included text reading, with fiction texts and leveled texts dominating. Instructional focus often centered on word recognition and fluency. Text choices did not consistently align with group purpose or grade level. Findings highlight the need for professional development in text selection and increased access to diverse texts, particularly nonfiction, to better support students’ reading development.

Authors

• Lisa Cortez Hendricks, Michigan State University

• Tanya S. Wright, University of Michigan