What is Balanced Literacy?

Balanced Literacy is a framework that helps all students learn to read and write effectively by gradually increasing the level of responsibility. The concept is based on the premise that all students can learn to read and write and the goal is to develop lifelong reading and writing habits as students learn skills and strategies.

Balanced Literacy is a model for teaching children in a student-centered classroom, providing many opportunities for real life reading and writing experiences combined with specific skills and strategy instruction. It is based on the theories of Marie Clay, Irene Fountas, and Gay Su Pinnell who base their work on the research of Lev Vygotski and Brian Cambourne. Balanced reading includes explicit teaching through modeling, a gradual release of responsibility, monitoring and application of skills in instructional level reading materials. Children read and write each day independently and in group settings (both large and small). Four different types of reading approaches are provided for students:

• Reading aloud • Shared reading - whole class • Guided reading - small group • Independent reading

Students also participate in shared and individual writing activities each day. The four types of writing experiences are:

• Modeled writing - whole class or small groups • Interactive writing - whole class • Writer's workshop - small groups or individual • Independent writing

Differentiation is an underpinning of a balanced literacy program since students are reading and writing at their instructional levels. Choice, time and student responsibility are important features of balanced literacy that motivate students to read and write through providing a variety of reading materials and writing options.

Standards-based explicit instruction occurs within each instructional approach: read aloud, shared reading, guided reading and independent reading. Additionally, expectations for student achievement are met at the appropriate level of cognitive demand.