What does "bounded choice" refer to in reading selection?

The concept of "bounded choice" refers to the practice of offering students a limited but varied selection of reading materials. This approach provides students with a sense of agency and ownership over their reading choices while simultaneously guiding them toward texts that are developmentally appropriate and aligned with educational goals. By narrowing down the options, educators can ensure that the selections are manageable and relevant, helping to avoid overwhelming students with an abundance of choices. This strategy encourages engagement and motivation, as students can select texts that interest them while still being supported in their reading development.