What is the role of independent reading in Standard 1?

• A. It should replace teacher-guided instruction entirely.
• B. It should be reserved for advanced readers only.
• C. It supports practice with decodable and leveled texts, fosters motivation, and provides opportunities to apply decoding and comprehension strategies learned in instruction.
• D. It should be discouraged until post-secondary education.

Answer: (C)

Independent reading plays a complementary role to guided instruction by providing ongoing practice with decodable and leveled texts, helping students stay motivated, and giving them chances to apply decoding and comprehension strategies they’ve learned.

When students read decodable texts, they can use the letter-sound relationships and phonics patterns they've been taught, strengthening decoding accuracy and fluency in a supportive, low-pressure context. Leveled texts align with what students can handle at their current stage, offering appropriate challenge that bridges decoding with comprehension. Independent reading also builds stamina and engagement, since students choose books that interest them, which supports a positive reading identity and persistence. Importantly, it gives students authentic opportunities to transfer strategies—like predicting, asking questions, monitoring comprehension, and using context clues—into self-directed reading.

This approach fits within a balanced program, rather than replacing teacher-guided instruction, ensuring instruction, practice, and independent reading work together for growth.