Kinder through Third Grade teachers use "Four
Blocks" with great success. Each block is approximately 30-45
minutes.
In "Shared/Guided Reading" the teacher introduces a
text and leads shared, choral, or echo reading. Discussion of vocabulary
follows. Then students read the text. A final teacher directed
discussion may also include acting out the story and a written
response.
In "Self-Selected Reading" the teacher reads aloud to all
students, including a variety of fiction and non-fiction, topics, and
authors. Then students select a book from the book baskets at the
tables to read independently while the teacher holds conferences with
designated students. Finally one or two students share briefly and answer
questions from classmates.
In "Writing Block" the teacher presents a lesson in which
she/he models writing and a skill to be emphasized. The students
write on self-generated topics. Editing conferences between student and
teacher occur. Finally one or two students share what they have written
and answer questions from classmates.
In "Working With Words Block" the teacher introduces 5 new
Word Wall words per week by having students do various activities with the
words. The teacher guides activities to help children learn spelling
patterns.
