Which reading level is most advantageous for students to maximize their learning with support?

The instructional reading level is the most advantageous for students to maximize their learning with support because it represents a level of text that is challenging yet manageable when guided by a teacher or mentor. At this level, students can engage with the material thoughtfully and critically, with scaffolding provided to help them navigate difficult vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and comprehension strategies.

When students read at their instructional level, they are pushed to develop their skills without becoming overwhelmed, which can lead to frustration and disengagement. This balance between challenge and support fosters more effective learning, as students are encouraged to think critically and develop strategies to comprehend the text while knowing assistance is available. In contrast, reading at a frustration level may lead to negative experiences and hinder overall literacy development, while independent reading allows a focus on fluency and enjoyment, but often lacks the necessary support for deeper comprehension and skill growth. Listening levels do not actively engage students in reading text, which may limit their cognitive engagement with the material. Thus, learning is maximized when students work within their instructional reading levels.