Balanced Literacy

  • Our Vision and Beliefs for Balanced Literacy

    Winchester Public Schools aim to promote high standards of language and literacy by equipping students with a strong command of the spoken and written word. We aim to develop students’ love of literature and an enjoyment of reading and writing.

    What is Balanced Literacy?

    Balanced Literacy is a curricular framework that integrates various components of literacy instruction - Read Aloud with Accountable Talk, Shared Reading, Small Group Guided Reading with Book Clubs, Independent Work, Word Work and Writing. Assessment-based planning through backward design is at the core of this framework. The balanced literacy approach is characterized by explicit skill instruction and modeling through mini lessons. Authentic texts are used as a springboard in the Reading and Writing Workshop Model.

  • To read and write easily, fluently, and with good understanding teachers will help students:

    • develop the habit of reading and writing often and across the curriculum for both pleasure and information
    • utilize various strategies to support comprehension
    • acquire an extensive vocabulary, an understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing, and spoken language
    • write clearly, accurately, and coherently
    • adapt their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes, and audiences
    • use discussion in order to build capacity and deepen understanding
    • elaborate and explain clearly their understanding and ideas
    • become competent in the arts of speaking and listening
    • build 21st Century Skills in creativity, critical thinking, communication, citizenship, and collaboration
    • create and deliver formal presentations

  • Students and Teachers reading stories