SHIFTING THE BALANCE

Shifting the Balance: 6 Ways to Bring the Science of Reading into the Balanced Literacy Classroom by Dr. Jan Burkins and Kari Yates offers a practical guide for educators navigating the complexities of reading instruction amid the ongoing debate surrounding the "Science of Reading." This concise resource presents six essential and research-backed shifts that teachers can implement to enhance early reading instruction for K-2 students.

Each chapter focuses on a specific area of reading instruction—such as reading comprehension, phonemic awareness, phonics, high-frequency words, cueing systems, and text selection—providing educators with clear strategies to refine their teaching practices. The authors combine insights from cognitive science, child development, and brain research with meaningful book experiences, ensuring that reading instruction remains engaging and effective.

Shifting the Balance is filled with practical classroom applications, including sample activities and real-life vignettes that illustrate how to integrate these shifts into everyday teaching. This book empowers educators to make informed decisions that prioritize student learning and foster a deeper understanding of effective reading practices.