What is the purpose of shared reading in the classroom?

The purpose of shared reading in the classroom is to engage with a text together with the teacher or peers. This instructional approach allows for collaborative exploration of a text, making it a rich and interactive learning experience. During shared reading, the teacher often leads the group, modeling reading strategies such as decoding and comprehension techniques while prompting discussions about the text. This shared experience enhances students' understanding of the material, fosters a love for reading, and encourages social interaction and cooperation among peers.

This method promotes comprehension skills and aids in vocabulary development as students hear expressive reading and engage in discussions about the story. Furthermore, it supports diverse learning needs by allowing students to hear fluent reading and participate at various levels of understanding. Shared reading not only builds literacy skills but also cultivates a supportive reading community within the classroom.