Shifting the Balance: 6 Ways to Bring the Science of Reading into the Balanced Literacy Classroom

I’ve had this book on my list since it came out and had waited to read reviews before purchasing. I didn’t want to buy yet another book that left me feeling meh. I listened to Jan and Kari on a few podcasts and took the plunge. I received it yesterday afternoon and I can’t put it down! I’m already on Shift 4 and the book is totally marked up and flagged for future reference. Thankfully, I’m on February break and I’m back at it today. Let me tell you what’s so great about this robust resource. The authors have written this book to be of service to teachers in order to support early learners and therefore, is reader friendly. They identify potential obstacles and get to the meat of what, why and how. I greatly appreciate the resources within each chapter that help teachers through each Shift as well as offer a wealth of additional free resources online. I’ve been a classroom teacher, special education teacher and now Title 1. The authors confirmed much for me and expanded upon what I knew (and on what I thought I knew.) I am just so excited about bringing this valuable information to school on Monday and digging in with my team. There’s nothing to buy and the suggestions on how to bring the science of reading into practice does not require that you buy materials or find additional instruction time. However, these nuggets will certainly allow teachers to instruct more efficiently and increase student proficiency. I’ve been disheartened by the number of students who continue to struggle to learn to read and am cognizant of the dire predictions for students who leave grade three without the skills they need. Thank you Jan and Kari for effectively weaving the science of reading research into practical applications which can be painlessly implemented into our instruction!

Excellent resource to help teachers shift the balance in their classrooms with questions to think about in their own practice

As someone that is transitioning from teaching high school to elementary school, I found this book very instructive and felt it easy to understand. My chief worry transitioning to elementary school is that I didn't understand the science of reading instruction very well. This book breaks it down into blocks/sections that explain the whys and the hows of planning well crafter reading instruction. It also breaks down common misconceptions and misunderstandings on how to approach teaching young readers how to transition from phonics to fluency in reading. I won't regurgitate what others have said about this book, but quite honestly, I like the simplicity of the authors' layout and explanations. Even if you are a veteran teacher of many years, you will find something that helps you become a better instructor of young and aspiring readers.

This book shows the research behind the shift to science of reading. Quick and easy read.

This is a good book but the printing is inferior. The ink fades in and out from black to light gray throughout. It makes it hard to read in some places.

I love this book. As an elementary English teacher, I find it very useful and practical. The book enlightened me by minimising my doubts in teaching reading skills. It’s my best choice of educational reference book.

This is a great resource for teachers who are implementing the science of reading as well as finding a balance of work structured literacy.

This book was just what I was looking for in regards to deepening my understanding around foundational skills.