Multi-leveled Children

In the article, “Let’s Start Leveling about Leveling”, by Kath Glasswell and Michael Ford, the topic discussed how there is not one way of leveling. This idea spans across many aspects. For instance, there is no one strategy to address a student’s need in other areas of life as well. Since we have been learning about child development in literacy, a theme has come up encouraging us to use multiple strategies. Utilizing multiple strategies can help each student find his or her strengths better than an “All for one and one for all” strategy.

The article continues to discuss the idea that leveled reading is not having success in the classroom. This comes as no surprise when each child is different and may feel limited in their studies when given a specific level to stick with. It is a good idea to “meet children where they are” in their reading ability, however limiting students to that level can stifle their growth. The article also mentions how “reading levels are not the same as reading needs.” Sometimes, we hear the phrase “you can only get better if you play with someone that is more skilled than you” when talking about sports. . Although, reading is not a sport, allowing children to choose books of interest just above their strength level can be a good start for them to improve their skills.

We have many multileveled students in our classrooms. Getting to know students and imparting multiple strategies can be extremely helpful in guiding their reading. Along with introducing a higher leveled book to a student, reading books that students know well or that the student has an interest in can help keep students connected to literature as well. Each of these strategies can help build confidence in the students. The confidence that student gain can aid in their reading ability buy encouraging him or her to tackle higher level reading.

Without our help, students are already trying to figure out “who they are” and “what they can do.” As teachers, we have the opportunity to educate ourselves about different strategies and find information on how to use the strategies to help propel individual students. Through these suggestions, we can begin to help our students find his or her “center” in the midst of the leveled chaos.