Target students with a diagnostic test. At the beginning of the year, you may get an early idea of problem areas if you administer a diagnostic test like DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills). The DIBELS tests measure a student's knowledge of early reading skills like alphabet knowledge and initial sound fluency. Scores will indicate whether a child is at-risk, some-risk or low-risk.
Conduct interventions to work on specific skills. Once you know what areas of reading are problematic for a child, work with him one-on-one or in small groups. This setting will prevent the student from being embarrassed in front of the class. Use manipulatives like plastic letter tiles and electronic phonics games to help him improve reading skills.
Pair smart kids with struggling students for partner-reading activities. As children partner-read, observe their progress and note areas of improvement. Ask them questions when they finish reading to check comprehension. Exceptionally bright children will get a confidence boost from helping their peers or from just working with other kids.
Find challenging reading games on line. Starfall and Readquarium have fun, interactive games for all children, but they are leveled so that advanced students can learn without growing bored easily. Games on these sites include practice and reinforcement of phonics and fluency skills.
Refer to a reading specialist if problems continue. There may be an underlying cause such as dyslexia. If you notice behaviors and symptoms that indicate dyslexic tendencies, talk to your principal or the special education supervisor. She can usually arrange to have the child tested. Never make this diagnosis yourself.