Four Block is a multimethod, multilevel framework for balanced literacy instruction. All children do not learn in the same way. The Four Blocks Framework was developed in 1989 for teachers who believe that to successfully teach all children to read and write you must provide a variety of approaches and numerous opportunities for reading and writing EVERYDAY.
Everyday in our Four Block classroom the children will spend time concentrating on four specific areas. They are Working With Words, Guided Reading, Writing, and Self-Select Reading. In the Working With Words Block the purpose is for children to learn to read, spell, and use high-frequency words correctly. Children learn the patterns that allow them to decode and spell lots of other words. Our word wall words are introduced and practiced in this block. The Guided Reading Block builds comprehension and fluency and introduces students to a variety of literature. The Self-Select Block builds fluency in reading and allows students to read and enjoy text that is appropriate to their own independent reading levels. The purpose of the Writing Block is to build fluency in writing, to apply the writing process, to refine and apply knowledge of phonics, and to build students' confidence as writers. Approximately 30-40 minutes is spent in each of the blocks daily.
I truly believe what research has proven. The Four Block method of teaching Language Arts produces better readers and writers. I have found that the children taught in the Four Block style achieve higher levels of reading and writing and also enjoy reading and writing more than those taught in the traditional style. That is, of course, what our goal should be. We want children to love to read and write!