balanced literacy vs structured literacy

2 min read 05-09-2024

balanced literacy vs structured literacy

In the realm of education, particularly in teaching reading, two prominent approaches have emerged: Balanced Literacy and Structured Literacy. Understanding the differences between these two methodologies is crucial for educators, parents, and policymakers alike. This article delves into each approach, their philosophies, and their implications for teaching reading effectively.

What is Balanced Literacy?

Balanced Literacy is an approach that combines various methods of teaching reading and writing. Its foundation lies in the belief that students should be exposed to a wide range of reading materials and instructional techniques. Here are some key components:

Components of Balanced Literacy

Reading Aloud: Teachers read to students to model fluent reading and comprehension strategies.
Shared Reading: Students read along with the teacher, often using big books or digital texts.
Guided Reading: Small groups of students read texts at their instructional level, supported by the teacher.
Independent Reading: Students choose books that interest them and read independently, fostering a love for reading.
Writing Instruction: Students engage in writing activities, with attention to both mechanics and creativity.

Philosophy of Balanced Literacy

The philosophy behind balanced literacy emphasizes flexibility and differentiation. It acknowledges that students come with varied backgrounds and abilities, thus requiring a diverse set of strategies to meet their individual needs.

What is Structured Literacy?

Structured Literacy, on the other hand, is a more systematic approach that emphasizes the explicit teaching of the components of reading. This method is particularly beneficial for students who struggle with reading, including those with dyslexia or other learning disabilities.

Components of Structured Literacy

Phonology: Understanding the sounds in words and how they can be manipulated.
Orthography: Recognizing the relationships between sounds and letters (phonics).
Morphology: Understanding the structure of words, including roots, prefixes, and suffixes.
Syntax: Learning the rules that govern sentence structure and grammar.
Semantics: Building vocabulary and comprehension skills.

Philosophy of Structured Literacy

The philosophy of structured literacy revolves around a sequential, systematic approach to reading instruction. It is grounded in research and emphasizes direct teaching of skills in a logical progression, ensuring that students build a solid foundation in reading.

Key Differences

Aspect	Balanced Literacy	Structured Literacy
Approach	Flexible, multi-faceted	Systematic, explicit
Focus	Variety of texts and strategies	Core components of reading
Instruction	Includes both guided and independent learning	Focused on direct instruction
Target Audience	All students, including those who are struggling	Primarily for struggling readers

Conclusion

Both Balanced Literacy and Structured Literacy have their merits and can be effective in different contexts. While balanced literacy offers a broad approach suitable for diverse learners, structured literacy provides a clear, systematic path for those who need more explicit instruction. Educators must consider the unique needs of their students when choosing the appropriate method for teaching reading.

In summary, understanding the strengths and applications of each approach can empower educators to create a more effective reading instruction environment, fostering a love for reading while ensuring that all students achieve literacy success.