Guided reading and small group instruction both involve grouping students based on reading levels, but guided reading groups students strictly by instructional reading level while small group instruction allows for a range of similar levels. Guided reading lessons are typically 20-25 minutes with a focus on reading strategies and comprehension, while small group instruction time and focus can vary more. The main purposes of guided reading are to practice reading at students' levels and monitor growth, while small group instruction aims to differentiate based on student needs and provide specific skill instruction.

1. Comparison: Guided Reading and Small Group Instruction
Guided Reading Small Group Instruction
Number of Students 4-6 students in a group 2-10 students in a group
Grouping of students Students are grouped by their Instructional Students are group by similar reading levels or by
Reading Level (usually one level per group) as strategy groups/needs. They are not necessarily all
determined by assessments such as Fountas and the same Instructional Reading Level. A range of
Pinnell’s Benchmark Assessment System. similar reading levels may be present in a group.
Length of Group Groups are temporary and fluid. Students are Groups are fluid and can be based on strategy or
moved to others groups as their instructional needs of students.
level increases.
Length of time Each guided reading lesson is 20 – 25 minutes. Small group instruction lessons vary in length ranging
from 15 minutes to 45 minutes.
Text Selection Text selection is foremost based on the Text is chosen based on a approximate levelled
instructional reading level. materials
Reading of the text The teacher introduces the text and provides a Text can be read aloud by the teacher or by various
purpose for reading. Before, during and after students. It might be read silently by individuals.
reading strategies are used. Each student reads Reading of the text may take various forms.
the entire text or a unified part of it softly or Round Robin reading is not encouraged.
silently while the teacher observes, listens in and Text is usually read once.
supports. They discuss the text and the teacher Students might work collaboratively.
makes some specific teaching points. Teaching is
specific to student’s reading needs. Students
learn self-help strategies and independence.
Reading is not done in Round Robin format.
Text is read and reread several times for different
purposes.
Focus Focus is on reading strategies and developing Focus can be on strategies, comprehension, or a
reading comprehension skills. Students are specific text selection.
practicing reading strategies. Reading for
meaning takes a lot of the instructional time.
Genres A variety of genres are covered. A variety of genres are covered.
Purpose To provide students time to practice reading at To differentiate instruction based upon student needs.
their instructional level. To provide specific skill instruction or concept
For students to practice comprehension and self attainment.
monitoring strategies in a supported
environment.
To be used as a time to monitor student growth
and to move them along from easier to harder
materials.