Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) TExES Practice Exam

Which strategy is recommended for teachers to support a class with diverse reading abilities effectively?

1. Allow for independent reading without peer support

2. Pair students with similar reading abilities

3. Incorporate mixed-ability pairing in group tasks

4. Use only written instructions without discussion

The correct answer is: Incorporate mixed-ability pairing in group tasks

Incorporating mixed-ability pairing in group tasks is a highly effective strategy for supporting a class with diverse reading abilities. This approach allows students with varying skill levels to collaborate, providing opportunities for peer learning and support. Stronger readers can help those who may struggle, enhancing comprehension through explanation and discussion. At the same time, students with less proficiency can offer unique perspectives and insights, which can enrich the learning experience for the entire group. This method fosters an inclusive classroom environment where all students feel valued and are encouraged to participate. It not only promotes social interactions that are beneficial for developing communication skills but also helps all students to build confidence in their abilities through cooperative learning. Such collaborative tasks often lead to deeper understanding as students explain concepts to one another, thereby reinforcing their own knowledge in the process. The other strategies do not foster the same level of interaction or support. For instance, allowing independent reading without peer support may leave students who struggle to comprehend texts feeling isolated, while pairing students with similar reading abilities could limit the learning potential that diversity brings. Using only written instructions without discussion can stifle students’ engagement and understanding, as they miss out on the benefits of verbal communication and clarification that arise from group interactions.