# Balanced Instruction

EdWord type

Personalization

Product

- [Freckle](/content/products/practice-instruction/freckle/index.html)

A balance of whole class, small group, and independent instruction allows for personalization.

Whole group time is usually used to introduce a new concept or encourage a large-scale discussion. These lessons are designed to reach the average student. Once the foundation is set, enhance the lesson with tailored approaches: strategic small groups, independent practice, and individual coaching.

Balanced instruction helps students enjoy learning together while still receiving [individualized instruction](/content/edword/individualized-instruction/index.html).

## Encourage large-group discussion

Whole class instruction allows you to instruct and model concepts for all students at once. It gives every student a good introduction and foundational knowledge of skills that individualized practice can enhance. Whole group instruction is an important component of your class ecosystem.

## The power of balanced instruction

Renaissance programs provide deep, meaningful practice ideal for supporting whole group instruction.

### Rewire the brain to build skills

A variety of practice options goes a long way to capturing and inspiring new readers. Different types of practice show students the different ways they will use reading in the future.

### Captivate students

One of the hot topics at NCTM 2016 was encouraging meaningful discourse as a key component of math practice. Use resources built for math practice to create an intuitive flow of student discussions during math.

## Balanced instruction in math and reading helps you:

- Encourage students to participate in discussions on a larger scale
- Create a rich environment where each child feels engaged, curious, and eager to learn more
- Tailor instruction so that the needs of individual students are addressed and their outcomes soar

## By achieving balance in the classroom

An ideal balanced instruction solution provides opportunities for whole group, small group and independent learning by:

- Quick assessments designed to keep students engaged with questions at just the right level of challenge
- Providing [reading](/content/products/accelerated-reader/index.html) and [math](/content/products/freckle/index.html) practice opportunities at the right level for every student to support what you’ve taught
- Showing you exactly what students know and what to teach next, with resources embedded to guide instruction.