Which approach aligns with research-based best practices for differentiating instruction in diverse reading skill groups?

Providing a variety of texts and collaborative reading opportunities aligns with research-based best practices for differentiating instruction in diverse reading skill groups. This approach recognizes that students come with varying levels of reading ability, interests, and learning preferences. By offering a range of texts at different levels and genres, educators can support individual learning needs and foster engagement. Collaborative reading opportunities allow students to work together, share insights, and learn from one another, further enhancing their comprehension and interpreting skills in a social learning environment. This method encourages personalization of learning, making it more effective for diverse learners than standardized or singular approaches.

In contrast, assigning the same text to all students can lead to disengagement or frustration for those who may struggle with the material. Encouraging competition among students can create an unhealthy learning environment and may discourage collaboration and support among peers, which is vital for developing reading skills. Relying solely on digital texts limits students' exposure to a variety of formats and may not align with their needs, especially for those who benefit from print materials or specific text structures. Thus, the chosen answer promotes an inclusive and adaptive learning environment essential for effective differentiation in reading instruction.