This document provides an overview of block scheduling in schools. It discusses pros and cons, including potential academic advantages like more in-depth lessons, and non-academic advantages such as a calmer school atmosphere and improved discipline. However, it also notes potential disadvantages such as gaps in sequential instruction. Different block scheduling models are described, including 4x4 and alternating schedules. Resources on the impacts of block scheduling, particularly on math instruction, are also provided. The presentation aims to inform the audience about block scheduling and its various considerations.

1. An
informational
session on
block
scheduling
By: Lacey Phillips

2. Pros Cons
 Academic  Gaps in sequential
advantages
 Non-academic
instruction
advantages
 Calmer school
atmosphere
 Better discipline
 Improved student
attitudes
 More in depth
lessons

3. Academic Advantages
 Research has shown a mix in academic
affects of block scheduling.
 Teachers have a longer class period,
which allows for more in-depth lessons,
and more hands-on experiences for
students. Consequently, this leads to
students learning at a higher level of
Bloom’s taxonomy.

4. Non-Academic
Advantages
 School atmosphere
 Observers noted a more relaxed and
focused atmosphere
 Decline in discipline problems
 Reduction in suspensions and referrals
 Positive
parent and student attitudes
 Longer periods are more appropriate for
teaching particular subjects

5. Block Scheduling
Disadvantages
 Gaps in sequential instruction
 One of the major concerns reported,
especially with Mathematics teachers
 Students could take their Math in the fall of
one year, and not have another Math class
until the Spring of the following year.
 Would this take more teacher instruction
time away in order to review previous
concepts?

6. Common block schedule
“set ups”
 4x4
 Students attend 4 classes a day and complete
each course in one semester
 A/B (Alternating Schedule)
 Courses meet every other day throughout the
school year
 Interdisciplinary Block
 Combines two or more subjects into one single
course, often team taught by one teacher from
each subject area.

7. Think about it…
Which type of
schedule would you
prefer?

8. Resources
Kramer, Steven L. (Feb 1997) “What we know
about block scheduling and its effects
on math instruction.”
Mondie, Marla M. (2009, Oct 22) “Teaching on the
Block: A Model for Pre-Service Teachers.”
Retrieved from Education Resources
Information Center.
Imbimbo, J., and Gilkes, A. (2009) Block Scheduling:
Center for School Success Promising Practices
Series. Retrieved from Education Resources
Information Center.

9. I hope that you
have enjoyed this
final presentation
by
Lacey Phillips!