Question 9

Assisting in delivering instruction and monitoring student progress

The most appropriate role for the paraprofessional in this context is to assist in delivering instruction and monitoring student progress. This aligns with Mr. Benson's approach of providing direct instruction and supporting Megan's learning as she develops her reading skills.

A) Working with the student one-on-one to facilitate group interactions with peers

While facilitating group interactions is important, this option does not directly address the instructional role that the paraprofessional should take in supporting Megan's reading development. The main focus in the extract is on instruction and skill acquisition, not on peer interactions.

B) Organizing functional living and learning experiences for the student

This option refers to broader life skills and experiences rather than the specific instructional support in reading that is emphasized in the extract. The focus is on phonics instruction and helping Megan decode words, which is not covered by this choice.

C) Assisting in delivering instruction and monitoring student progress

This option is correct as it closely reflects the activities described in the extract. Mr. Benson's method of teaching includes providing direct instruction and monitoring Megan’s application of her new decoding skills, which is the ideal role for a paraprofessional in this scenario.

D) Ensuring that lesson plans are aligned to the student’s specific IEP goals and objectives

While ensuring alignment with IEP goals is important, the extract does not specifically mention this as part of Mr. Benson’s immediate instructional approach. The focus is more on the direct instructional support rather than administrative compliance with IEPs.

Conclusion

The role of assisting in delivering instruction and monitoring student progress is crucial for effective learning, especially in a reading context as illustrated in the extract. Other options, while relevant in different contexts, do not directly address the instructional support needed for Megan's reading development. Thus, Option C is the most suitable choice that aligns with the core concept of supporting student learning through direct instruction and monitoring.