Final answer:
The area of instruction not required for a balanced comprehensive reading program according to the California RLA Framework is Mathematics. This is because Mathematics is a separate subject from the components of the reading program, which include Phonics, Vocabulary, and Comprehension.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the California Reading/Language Arts (RLA) Framework, a balanced comprehensive reading program should include areas such as Phonics, Vocabulary, and Comprehension. However, the area of instruction that is not required for a reading program is Mathematics. This is because Mathematics is a separate subject and does not directly relate to the components of reading instruction.
Despite the concerns raised about deficiencies in the Mathematics curriculum, as highlighted by the High School Exit Exam and SAT averages, this does not impact the reading program's content. Since the concerns indicate that students are not mastering basic math skills like fractions, percentages, and long division, it emphasizes the need for a stronger focus on Mathematical literacy within Mathematics education, rather than within a reading program.