What does reciprocal teaching involve?

Reciprocal teaching involves a collaborative approach to learning where students work together to enhance their comprehension of texts through specific strategies, which typically include summarizing, questioning, clarifying, and predicting. This method emphasizes the importance of peer interaction and shared responsibility in the learning process. By engaging in these activities, students take turns leading discussions, guiding their peers through the text, and fostering a deeper understanding through conversation and inquiry. This collaborative learning environment not only helps students develop comprehension skills but also encourages critical thinking and communication abilities, making it a dynamic educational strategy. In contrast, individual study without peer interaction, competitive reading strategies, and strictly teacher-led instruction do not embody the essence of reciprocal teaching, as they lack the interactive and cooperative elements that are central to this pedagogical approach.