Balanced Literacy Parent Information NightRiver Vale Public Schools

October 13, 2011

Julie-Anne Walsh, PhDLiteracy Consultant

Balanced Literacy…

• involves the application of skills to the reading of excellent literature and authentic writing tasks

Balanced Literacy…

• involves the application of skills to the reading of excellent literature and authentic writing tasks

• reflects a gradual release of responsibility from the teacher to the students

Balanced Literacy…

• involves the application of skills to the reading of excellent literature and authentic writing tasks

• reflects a gradual release of responsibility from the teacher to the students

• provides teacher-supported, assessment-based, comprehensive skills instruction

Balanced Literacy Components

• Reading

• Writing

• Language Arts/Word Study

Reading Components

• Teacher Read-Aloud

• Shared Reading

• Guided Reading & Strategy Lessons

• Book Clubs

• Independent Reading

Writing Components

• Teacher Write-Aloud

• Shared Writing

• Guided Writing & Strategy Lessons

• Independent Writing

Language Arts/Word Study Components

• Phonics & Spelling

• High-Frequency Words

• Vocabulary

• Grammar

• Handwriting

Literacy Assessments

• Letter/Sound Identification

• Concepts of Print

• High-Frequency Words

• Independent Reading Level Assessment

• Spelling Inventory

• Writing Sample

Book Levels

• Text Characteristics

• Behaviors/Strategies

• Text Examples

Reading Workshop• Minilesson

• Independent Reading Time

• Conferring

• Guided Reading

• Strategy Lessons

• Partnerships

• Book Clubs

• Mid-Workshop Teaching Point

• Teaching Share

Writing Workshop

• Minilesson

• Independent Writing Time

• Conferring

• Strategy Lessons

• Partnerships

• Mid-Workshop Teaching Point

• Teaching Share

Fitting It All In

• Read Aloud

• Reading/Writing Workshop

• Shared Reading/Writing

• Word Study

Transition Plan

• A Look Back

• 2011-2012

• A Look Ahead

Tips for Support at Home

Read every day!! Talk every day!!

Write for everyday reasons

Reinforce literacy skills