If a text is at a frustration reading level for most students, what is the most appropriate instructional action?

• A. Continue with the same text without changes.
• B. Have students read faster to increase comprehension.
• C. Use more difficult texts to push students.
• D. Provide scaffolds and select more accessible texts.

Answer: (D)

When a text is at a frustration reading level for most students, the aim is to reduce the challenge while building independence. The best instructional action is to provide scaffolds and choose more accessible texts so students can practice understanding with support and gradually build skills. Scaffolds like pre-teaching key vocabulary, chunking the text into smaller sections, guided questions, and graphic organizers help students organize ideas, monitor meaning, and apply strategies as they read. Selecting easier, accessible texts ensures students experience success, builds confidence, and lays a foundation for tackling tougher material later. Over time, supports can be faded and text complexity gradually increased as comprehension improves.