THE FOUR BLOCKS SHOP   Your source for EVERYTHING Four Blocks!

As I try to encourage them to take baby steps and implement in a manner that is "doable". They are eager to jump in with both feet and take it head-on. In addition, it is always exciting to hear teachers say they feel like it won’t all be new – they are already doing some of the things we have talked about.

It makes me think about Jim Cunningham and how he said Four Blocks would never be mainstream – because it makes too much sense!  Isn’t that the truth?

When I train new schools I often tell the story of the original Four Blocks Classroom – in Margaret Defee’s room as she worked with Pat and Dottie. I explain that at that time it was called Multi-Method, Multi-Level Instruction. And while we are all thankful it is now shortened to Four Blocks, it is so important to go back to those terms. We have to remember that all four methods (Guided Reading – or comprehension-, Self-Selected Reading, Working with Words, and Writing) are part of a framework that needs all four components. The framework is interconnected and is not complete if only three of the blocks are present. We also have to remember that being multi-level (or differentiating) is necessary but doesn’t have to be complicated. There are many things built into this framework that provide differentiated instruction automatically.

There is definitely resurgence in Four Blocks – both Dottie Hall and I have been talking about the renewed interest and it is an exciting time to be working with schools. This resurgence is why I am determined to get the Blog going again – and even better – try to keep up with new posts. Let us know what is happening in your Four Blocks Classroom!

Until next time....

Amanda
Amanda Arens
Literacy Consultant