by Tammy Frost

Created on: November 19, 2009   Last Updated: November 20, 2009

How to become an effective reading support teacher

There are a few important steps to take to prepare your self to become an effective reading assistant, tutor and or teacher. Understanding the importance of educating your self as a teacher is one main factor to consider before you decide to support another reader. How can you help another if you are unable to read yourself? The steps below will help assist you on becoming a helpful and effective reading teacher.

Make sure you as a support teacher is well educated

. Take advanced reading classes at your local university or community college. Spend your free time at the library. You can either stay for an hour a day reading at the library or you can check out some advanced reading materials. Take them home to study and practice reading. Checking out, purchasing or borrowing teaching books will also give you the extra education you need to be a successful support teacher. There are many internet resources for you to use to improve your teaching and reading skills as well.

Understand that the student needs your help.

You have to keep in mind that the student is in need of your guidance and reading support. Stay patient, listen and stay calm. Teachers need to keep an open mind and realize everyone is different and have different skills. Some students have a higher skill level in other subjects. As a supportive teacher, remember back to a subject you disliked or wasn't as educated in. While one person could love to read, the next person could love to complete Math problems.

Remember to be helpful but not too helpful as a reading support teacher.

Sit closely with the student in need of assistance. Have them sound out the complex words as they read to you. Allow them to try to read the words before you jump in and say the word for them. Give them your full attention and don't be concerned about the time. Give the person reading to you plenty of time to try to read. If they are having problems, assist them by finally sounding out the words with them. Educate your student on nouns, verbs, adverbs, adjectives and give the student examples of different words that may look or sound alike. Be kind to the person you are teaching and don't lose your patience and temper.

Find a quiet study area for you and your student

Trying to be a supportive reading teacher is not very effective if you choose a loud study area. Find a quiet place to hear and help your student read. The library would be a great place to study that has no distractions like screaming children. If you follow the steps above, you will become an effective support teacher.

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