Nothing is more important than
the ability to read and write. And as times change, so do teaching
styles.
Are you still mired in an old-world approach
to literacy? Do you understand the fundamentals of Balanced Literacy,
now the preferred method of reading/writing instruction?
Components of a Balanced Literacy Program
The seven components of a balanced literacy program are:
1) reading aloud
2) shared reading
3) guided reading
4) independent reading
5) shared writing
6) guided writing
7) independent writing
This article will provide a quick overview of
the first four components.
Reading Aloud
Reading aloud to your class is a useful way to expose your students
to material not yet within their own capabilities.
Be sure to represent a variety of genres,
particularly those they might not discover on their own.
Be aware that you are serving as a model
reader. Always demonstrate sound reading strategies and project
enthusiasm for the text.
Read aloud to your students everyday.
You will foster a love of reading and help them become familiar
with story conventions. Read short stories, novels, non-fiction,
magazines, and poetry.
Shared Reading
During shared reading, you will do the bulk of the reading, modeling
successful strategies while allowing your students more participation
than during your read aloud segments.
Be sure to pick material a bit more advanced
than your students are used to.
A successful shared reading program will build
both student confidence and reading abilities.
Guided Reading
During guided reading, you will act as a guide to small groups
of students that will do all of the reading.
These groups should ideally contain four
or five students at the same reading level.
You will be able to reinforce successful
reading strategies while assuring that no student is attempting
to read material beyond their current capabilities.
You will need to rotate between the groups
in your class, asking engaging questions about the text and
fostering helpful discussions between your students. Of course,
you will also need to ensure that students don't get off-task.
A successful guided reading program will build
student independence and problem solving abilities.
Independent Reading
By allowing your students to independently read a text of their
own choosing, you will help them build both confidence and successful
reading habits.
Always allow students to read material that
suits their interests while ensuring each text is at your students'
individual reading level.
Always take some time each day to allow for
independent reading. And since every student comes from a different
economic background, be sure that your classroom is stocked with
many books on a variety of topics.
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Degree in Literacy, a Master’s
Degree in School Counseling or graduate
courses. Call toll free 1-877-922-2483 or contact
us today.
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