Which type of reading support is needed for students reading below their grade level?

Students reading below their grade level require additional support to meet grade-level reading standards because their reading skills and comprehension may not be sufficient to engage effectively with grade-level materials. This support can take various forms, such as targeted interventions, specialized instruction, and use of leveled texts that allow them to build their skills at an appropriate pace.

This additional support could include phonics instruction, vocabulary development, and guided reading sessions designed to develop fluency and comprehension strategies. Providing such assistance is crucial to help these students catch up with their peers and boost their confidence in reading.

While encouragement from peers is beneficial for motivation, it does not provide the structured learning that struggling readers need. Similarly, support in algebra-related texts is not relevant to improving foundational reading skills, which is the primary concern for students reading below grade level. The idea that no additional support is necessary overlooks the diverse challenges these students may face, which can hinder their academic progress if unaddressed.