Offers suggestions for developing creative instructional approaches in time-blocked classes. Teachers should continuously engage students in active learning, include group activities to encourage student participation, incorporate activities addressing multiple intelligences, use creative thinking activities, move outside the classroom, employ…

Describes the ways in which block scheduling can decrease school-day interruptions, reduce discipline problems, and help students who need more time and a slower pace. Also describes block schedules' effects on students and teachers. Sidebars offer guidelines for block scheduling and selected references. (LMI)

This study examined the relationship between school scheduling format and average composite scores on the ACT Assessment after controlling for lifestyle factors, gender, school enrollment levels, number of examinees, and years under the scheduling model. The participants were 38,089 high schools seniors in 568 public high schools in Iowa and…

An evaluation of the 4 X 4 block schedule used in three North Carolina high schools elicited strong support from teachers, students, and parents. Schools planning to implement this model should review D. G. Hackman's guidelines covering faculty input, feedback procedures, training opportunities, teacher fatigue, holidays, classroom monitoring,…

Describes the pitfalls of block scheduling and outlines questions to consider before implementing a block plan. (LMI)

Describes a type of block scheduling for middle schools that combines heterogeneous grouping in all subjects within the block and ability grouping. Presents a method of compiling data for block schedules to assist planning. (JPB)

During the past 4 years block scheduling has been adopted by a majority of the high schools in Middle Tennessee. This paper presents findings of a study that explored the effects of the new schedule. Data were gathered from a questionnaire that was completed by 280 teachers and approximately 2,000 students from 6 high schools in the region. Both…

Block scheduling and intensive or extended-time scheduling have been appearing in high schools across the United States. This guidebook is designed to help each school find the best route to achieve this organizational change. The book's premise is that structural change in schools is not sufficient to create meaningful educational improvement.…

Describes the use of parallel block scheduling (PBS) in inclusive classrooms as a flexible method of scheduling that addresses student grouping; time for teacher planning; and scheduling of subjects, support services, and staff. The characteristics of PBS and an elementary school that uses the system are highlighted. (Author/CR)

Explains why block scheduling has become accepted practice at the secondary level and describes potential benefits for middle level schools. Shares common scheduling approaches and discusses their appropriateness for use at the middle level. Presents alternative models that would permit middle school faculties to capitalize on the benefits of…

Discusses the transition from traditional teaching and scheduling to a comprehensive block schedule with team teaching at the middle school level. Describes the process of educational change, including framing the problem, establishing consensus for change, creating pure teams, designing the master schedule; also discusses implementation issues.…

The block schedule is fast becoming the new instructional delivery format of choice for the 1990s in American secondary schools. This paper presents findings of a study that examined the effects of changing from a six-period day to a four-block schedule on two large high schools in Knox County, Tennessee. Part I of the study examined the…

Since 1989, North Carolina has implemented several statewide initiatives to establish high expectations for all students. State educators have also paid increasing attention to the flexible use of time as a resource for expanding student learning. Block scheduling is a reorganization of school time that is increasingly being adopted by North…

Describes a committee's efforts to revamp schedules to improve their high school's elective course options, provide equitable teacher-preparation time, and use instructional time productively. From three viable schedules (a four-period block, alternating-day schedule; a five-period trimester with a flexible period; and a modified trimester plan…

Discusses the affordability of implementing interdisciplinary teaching teams and block schedules in middle schools. Argues that the benefits of these school schedules and models make them worth the investment of time and money it takes to implement them. (JPB)