The story of the process that Mundelein High School (located in a northwest suburb of Chicago, Illinois) as it moved from a traditional schedule to a block schedule is described throughout this book as a way to blend theory with practice. The book addresses types of block schedules; key issues for effective preparation; professional development before and during the move to block schedules; curriculum development; approaches to student support services; how to create strong unit/lesson plans; 30 strategies for varying instruction; 27 key concerns regarding administration; making and coordinating schoolwide and departmental decisions; and working with the larger school community. Essays in the book are: (1) "Planning and Preparing: Getting Ready for the Block"; (2) "Supporting the Professional Development Process"; (3) "Examining and Revising the Curriculum"; (4) "Varying Instructional Approaches"; (5) "Teaching Yearbook and Newspaper on the Block" (Diane VonderHaar); (6) "Teaching Theatre on the Block" (Karen M. Hall); (7) "Considering Other Instructional and Departmental Changes" (Carol Porter and Diane VonderHaar); and (8) "Reflecting on Practice: What We've Learned." (Contains 62 references. Appendixes contain sample block schedules; Mundelein High School Block Schedule policies; time management samples; strategy descriptions; a curriculum map; a sample unit [Expressions: Literature and the Arts]; Advancement Center forms; and sample learning centers.) (RS)