Teaching a first grader how to read is a rewarding experience! In my latest YouTube video, I demonstrated a complete tutoring session with a first-grade student. We focused on key reading skills through fun and engaging activities. Below, I’ll break down the strategies we used, along with tips for parents, tutors, and educators to help young learners develop strong reading foundations.
1. Partner Reading Activity
Partner reading is a fantastic way to build confidence and fluency. I read a for a character and the child reads for a character, much like a play. This technique models proper phrasing and expression while allowing the child to practice in a fun way.
Tips for Success:
✔ Choose partner reading stories at child’s reading level – not too easy, but not too challenging.
✔ Encourage expression and proper pacing.
✔ Provide praise and gentle corrections when needed.
2. Word Bird Nest Game
Games make learning exciting! In this activity, I wrote phonics-based words on paper “eggs.” My students picked an egg, read the word, and placed it into a bird’s nest.
Why This Works:
✔ Reinforces word recognition and vocabulary.
✔ Adds a hands-on, interactive element to learning.
✔ Makes sight word practice more engaging.
3. Comprehension Reading Passage
Reading comprehension is just as important as fluency. After reading a short passage together, I asked simple questions to check understanding.
Key Questions to Ask:
✔ Who are the characters?
✔ What happened in the story?
✔ How did the character feel?
✔ What do you think will happen next?
4. Paragraph Writing Activity
To tie everything together, we wrote a short paragraph about a picture. Use prompts to build confidence in writing.
Helpful Writing Prompts ideas:
✔ A picture of an animal or insect – something your child is interested in
✔ Ask them to list three things they notice about the picture.
✔ Have them expand upon those details.
Watch the Full Tutoring Session!
Want to see these strategies in action? Check out my full YouTube video here:
If you found this helpful, don’t forget to subscribe to my channel for more reading and tutoring tips!
Have you tried any of these techniques? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Get the FREE printable mentioned in the video right here on this blog. Go to SHOP and look under the Category, READING. You will find these and more resources to help your child succeed to read!