Language Arts
Taking a balanced literary approach.
The components of a balanced literacy approach to reading and writing include: reading workshop, read alouds, shared reading, guided reading, word study, writing workshop, and interactive writing.
In a balanced literacy program, students see reading and writing modeled, share in the reading and writing process with the teacher, are coached, practice skills independently, and actively engage in word study. This approach to instruction, a workshop model developed by Teachers College Reading and Writing Project at Columbia University, is designed to support individualized learning by knowing each child’s readiness, interests, and learning style. The workshop model provides a responsive approach, where the teachers are planning instruction and creating goals that address the needs of the individual or group of students in the class.
Workshops are deliberately designed to be simple and predictable. Students spend the larger part of their time developing the skills, strategies, and tools they need to become avid readers, writers, and inquisitive learners. Conversely, teachers spend the majority of the time working with small groups and conferencing with students. This instructional practice allows for teachers to personalize instruction and create the academic rigor we provide our students.