Balanced literacy is an overarching term that describes the kind of instruction that provides students optimal opportunities to become proficient readers and writers. A balanced literacy classroom aims to create self-regulated learners by providing rich literacy experiences in reading and writing. Characterized by explicit skill instruction and the use of authentic texts, a balanced literacy approach bases instruction on the identified needs of learners and scaffolds student learning in a way that optimizes student success and motivation. 

 

Implemented through reading and writing workshop, a balanced literacy framework includes each of the following components: