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Re: Block Scheduling
Posted by Ann HS/WA on 5/09/08
On 5/09/08, too much emphasis can be given to certain classes
wrote:
> I have several problems with the block. One is that too much
> emphasis can be given to certain classes that do not need
it.
> For example, a student who is in band, devotes ONE-FOURTH of
> his/her high school career to it. Also, the block is
> difficult for reasons which really do have to do with
> research. It is known, for example, that it is better for
> long-term memory to learn/study something over a period of a
> couple of days with rest in-between.
Regarding the too much time issue. A 4X4 block schedule (four
ninety minute periods) can easily be adjusted; a block can be
divided into two 42 minute periods - or a block can run for 9
weeks.
As for research, there are no studies that indicate one
schedule is better than another for learning. Schedules are
low level changes, not high level changes. Low level changes
do not fundamentally affect learning. Test scores support
this. Block schedule classes do just as well as 6 period
classes.
One advantage of a 4X4 block schedule is that a student takes
8 classes a year, opposed to 6. One result we have seen is
that students take MORE math than students do on a traditional
6 period day schedule, for instance.
Another advantage of the block schedule (again, I am speaking
of a 4X4 block not an A/B block) is that less homework is
assigned or necessary and students balance academic classes
between terms - most students take two academic and two
electives a term. In a 6 period day, that student would have 4
academics and two electives every day.
Posts on this thread, including this one
- Block Scheduling , 5/09/08, by Alyssa.
- Re: Block Scheduling , 5/09/08, by Helen/HS/La..
- Re: Block Scheduling , 5/09/08, by Ann HS/WA.
- Re: Block Scheduling , 5/09/08, by too much emphasis can be given to certain classes.
- Re: Your last comment, 5/09/08, by PST.
- Re: Your last comment, 5/09/08, by But not every day of the week for 18 weeks.
- Re: Block is horrible for music classes., 5/09/08, by Donna music/TN.
- Re: Block Scheduling , 5/09/08, by alaska teacher.
- Re: Block Scheduling , 5/09/08, by Ann HS/WA.
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