Caitlin Walton-Early Assessments (3)

QUOTE: Students read independent-level books when they're reading for pleasure and instructional-level books when they are participating in guided-reading or another instructional activity. They shouldn't be expected to read books at their frustration level; when it's essential that struggling students experience grade-appropriate information, teachers should read the text aloud to students.
COMMENT: I agree with this, in the sense that we should never assign readings to the point that it makes students frustrated. But, I do believe that they way children grow is by working though harder readings. If they are only given books that they can recognize all the words in and read all the way through, then they will stay on the same level. I little sweat is sometimes necessary, as long as they know they are supported and that the teacher is there to call upon for help before things get too heated. It is like muscle building--if a person only lifts weights that are easy for them then they will never increase their strength. They need a small amount of frustration with the harder weights because then they have something to work on and that is improving their level. Also, I don't want to give my students a crutch by making them dependent on the teacher and run to me when they feel like something is above their reading level. That is why it is so important to teach them word recognition and comprehension skills so they can know how to work through it themselves.
QUESTION: In the quote, it states that teachers should read aloud all material that is above students' levels so they won't frustrate the children. To me, this is not that great of an idea because when standardized tests come along the students are on their own and might have to read something that is a little frustrating to them and the teacher cannot come help them. Is there a better way to deal with higher level readings in the classroom that puts more responsibility on the students but does not overstress or discourage them with the hard readings?