Literacy Centers

A key component of our balanced literacy program is literacy center time. During this daily activity kindergarteners have the opportunity to develop their skills as beginning readers and writers. Centers include: guided reading, guided writing, computer programs, individual and buddy reading, and additional literacy activities.
	Guided reading is the core of literacy center time. It is an instructional approach that involves a teacher providing support to a small group of students, with the ultimate goal being the students’ ability to read independently. Guided reading texts offer just enough challenge to support problem solving while still supporting fluency and meaning. Reading strategies, fluency, and comprehension are key components during this time.
At the guided writing center the teacher models writing for the children and guides them as they practice their developing writing skills. Students work on appropriately leveled computer programs that enhance and support their skills.
	During buddy reading time students practice reading to and with each other and at independent reading time students have an opportunity to practice all of the skills they are learning. An example of an additional literacy center is word family practice.