Choosing books at the appropriate reading level for your child
It stands to reason that if you provide your child with interesting and exciting books at just the right reading level, he or she will be motivated to read. And strong reading skills come from lots of practice. Having access to leveled books that are engaging and well-written also contributes greatly to school success by expanding vocabulary, improving comprehension, developing writing abilities and study skills.
The thing to know when choosing books for a developing reader is that she has an instructional level and also an independent reading level. The instructional reading level requires the assistance of a teacher or parent. This is the level where new vocabulary is learned, and where progress is made in reading skills acquisition. The independent reading level is easier and more relaxed. At this level there would be no more than one word error per 100 words of text. Text at the independent level is easily comprehensible and can be read alone with no problem.
Some experts also identify a “frustration level.” Books at this level will be too hard for your child. Too many decoding errors with a low comprehension level seriously decreases the value of reading, not to mention the enjoyment of reading.
Children all develop reading abilities at different rates, just as they do with everything else. You can be certain your readers are reading books at the reading level that is most appropriate for them when you choose books from LeveledReader.com