What is Round-Robin Reading?
Round-robin reading is a teaching strategy where students take turns reading aloud from a text in a group setting. Typically, students are asked to read a paragraph or page before passing to the next student. This method was once common in classrooms but has faced criticism in recent years.
Proponents of round-robin reading argue that it:
Ensures all students participate
Allows teachers to assess reading skills
Helps students practice reading aloud
However, critics point out several drawbacks:
It can be anxiety-inducing for struggling readers
Proficient readers may become bored
Students often focus on their upcoming turn rather than comprehending the text
It’s an inefficient use of instructional time
Many educators now prefer alternative methods that promote more active engagement and comprehension, such as:
Choral reading (students read together)
Partner reading
Silent reading followed by discussion
Small group guided reading
While round-robin reading may still have a place in some classrooms, teachers are increasingly moving towards more differentiated and engaging reading instruction methods that cater to diverse learning needs and promote deeper understanding of texts.