Which factor is considered to have the MOST impact on effective reading outcomes?

While grouping plays a role in literacy instruction, the factor that has the most significant impact on effective reading outcomes is frequency of reading practice. Engaging in regular, sustained reading practice builds fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension skills, which are critical for developing proficient readers.

When students frequently read, they are exposed to a variety of texts and contexts, allowing them to practice and improve upon their reading strategies in real time. This consistency helps reinforce their learning and enables them to make meaningful connections within the text. In contrast, while grouping can provide social support and targeted instruction, it is the habitual practice of reading that fundamentally enhances reading skills.

Regular reading practice not only encourages a deeper understanding of language mechanics but also fosters a love for reading, contributing to long-term educational success and personal growth. Access to reading materials and individual attention are certainly beneficial, but without consistency in practice, their efficacy can be limited.