Text: Emphasize Shared Reading

Shared reading is a rare phenomenon in many upper grade classrooms and certainly at the intermediate levels. As an individual who has experience in teaching grades 2 and up, shared reading was a new construct for me. I had always read aloud to my students, stopping spontaneously to ask questions or invite comments along the way. Therefore, I had a difficult time distinguishing the difference between readaloud and SRE.

            Shared reading appears to have a different purpose and a separate methodology than a readaloud. Through the years, I have had the opportunity to read Don Holdaway’s research and understand the difference between the two components of instruction. The Routman text discusses in detail, what SRE is, how it may be delivered, and provides a sort of template for those who are new to the concept (Routman, 2003). SRE is a student-friendly method of helping learners understand key constructs in reading. For my students (all of whom were struggling learners or students enrolled in special education) SRE was a non-threatening way to deliver new concepts and help them come to an understanding of what they needed to know. For students who typically struggle with written expression as well as reading fluency and comprehension, SRE emphasizes oral expression and a guided approach to concept acquisition. I personally love the emphasis on discussion because many of my students have never been exposed to analysis in the form of discussion. It is motivating (for myself and my students) when they feel brave enough to make a point, notice text features, and engage in discussion amongst themselves. The greatest advantage of SRE is that affective bond that enhances motivation and produces an atmosphere where students feel free to ask questions and provide their input. This is why this methodology would work for both primary or intermediate levels. 

Reference:

Routman, R. (2003). Reading essentials: The specifics you need to teach reading well. Portsmouth, NH. ISBN: 0325004927