What does “leveling texts” mean?

Leveling texts refers to the process of categorizing books according to their complexity, which allows educators to match the reading materials to the varying abilities of their students. This practice is essential in ensuring that each reader is provided with appropriate material that aligns with their reading skills, facilitating comprehension and engagement. By considering factors such as vocabulary, sentence structure, and thematic depth, teachers can select texts that challenge students just enough to promote growth without causing frustration or disengagement.

The goal of this approach is to create a supportive reading environment where students can successfully build their skills through appropriately leveled literature, ultimately enhancing their overall literacy development. This method is widely considered a best practice in differentiated instruction, as it helps cater to the diverse needs of learners in a classroom setting.