Reading Buddies

Thank you for visiting the Reading Buddies website. We have gathered here a variety of information about Reading Buddies. The information is primarily for parents and teachers who want to know more about this literacy program for elementary students who experience difficulties learning to read and write. Click on a topic of interest below, or enter our discussion group where you can send a specific question for us to answer. If you are already a Reading Buddies tutor or teacher, click to our discussion group to talk to other tutors and teachers.

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Reading Buddies is the name given to school and business site developmental reading programs. The philosophy and instruction criterion is identical to those of the school year and summer reading tutorials held at the Center for Learning and Literacy and the summer half-day Reading Tracks program. Daily instruction includes reading with and reading to the students, word study, and writing.
Reading Buddies is conducted at the school or business. In one model, the participants meet after school for an hour or more two times each week. In several of the schools there are double sessions. Students at one school are often divided into groups. The first group meets with the Mentor Teacher and tutors for instruction while the second group meets in the computer lab for supportive activities. At the end of the first hour the two groups rotate for their turn for instruction or computer lab activities.
The Reading Buddies program features flexible design and implementation and each of the Reading Buddies programs is unique to the sponsoring business or school based on the special needs of the staff, students, and parents.
The literacy goals for students who attend Reading Buddies is initially determined by the teachers and principal at each participating school or the planning committee in a business. Enrollment is based on initial assessment and agreement by school staff. It is important that students are grouped appropriately for instruction.