Balanced Literacy Essentials shows teachers how to create a literacy program that balances the components of language arts with the power of meaningful interaction with students. Based on the latest learning theories, this timely resource is full of simple ways teachers can nurture meaningful reading, writing, and talk in today's classroom. The book provides an overview of reading instruction, techniques for supporting writers; and poetry, storytelling, and drama activities. Balanced Literacy Essentials offers the background and strategies teachers need to encourage students to question, discover, and learn.