Block Scheduling

Giving Students the Ability to Focus

Block scheduling is an effective tool used to help students gain a greater focus on lessons and mastering objectives. At Insight School of Minnesota (ISMN), students in grades 6–9 will get practice with one quarter-length’s course that is block scheduled. This course is typically an elective but will be run much more quickly than the other four semester-length courses.

Block scheduling allows students to concentrate on fewer courses at a time in a condensed schedule (typically a nine-week period). By spending more time on each subject, students can focus their efforts on fewer subject areas, without having to jump from subject to subject every day. And because more time is spent on a subject, often coursework can be worked on during an extended class session and real-time coursework help can be offered.

At ISMN, block scheduling is offered in high school science, social studies, health, physical education, and all other elective courses. Core English and math courses are offered only in a semester format. A typical full-time high school student will be enrolled in four courses at any given time, typically with two semester-length courses and two quarter-length courses. 

Block scheduling can also be an asset for students who may be behind in credits. The pace of the quarter courses allows students to make up credits more quickly. Students should know that block scheduled classes run much faster than semester-length classes and should be prepared to complete more coursework in a shorter amount of time.

Questions regarding block scheduling can be addressed by the school counselor.