Which strategy supports a balanced literacy approach?

• A. Exclusive focus on phonics.
• B. Rely solely on silent reading.
• C. Use only digital texts.
• D. A combination of explicit instruction (phonics, vocabulary), guided practice (shared and small-group reading), and independent reading and writing.

Answer: (D)

Balanced literacy blends explicit instruction with guided practice and independent reading and writing. This approach supports decoding, vocabulary, and comprehension from the start, then gives students structured opportunities to apply those skills in real reading and writing tasks. The option that includes explicit instruction in phonics and vocabulary, guided practice through shared and small-group reading, and independent reading and writing best reflects that mix. It ensures students learn skills, get guided support to apply them, and have time to practice on their own. The other options miss important parts: focusing only on phonics handles decoding but not comprehension and fluency; relying on silent reading alone lacks the needed instruction and guidance; and using only digital texts doesn’t guarantee the necessary balanced blend of instruction and practice.