Balanced Reading Instruction
Timely Topics: Balanced Reading Instruction http://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/timely/britoc.htm
Abstract: This brief paper describes the common but mistaken view that whole language and skills-based
instruction are dichotomous. Research shows that the teaching of reading requires solid skill instruction
(including phonics and phonemic awareness) embedded in enjoyable reading and writing experiences with whole
texts to facilitate the construction of meaning. In other words, balanced reading instruction in the classroom
combines the best of phonics instruction and the whole-language approach to teach both skills and meaning and to
meet the reading needs of individual children.
Check out the balanced reading "issues" at:
http://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/timely/briiss.htm