Examines factors relevant to developing a schedule for the middle school day to effectively meet educational goals. Identifies types of schedules used in middle schools and assesses the effectiveness of these scheduling options for supporting a quality program. (JPB)

Discusses five types of flexible block schedules used in a team-taught middle school classroom. Briefly describes the transition from traditional scheduling to block scheduling. (JPB)

Discusses the implementation of a modified block schedule with three-teacher teams to deepen student engagement and understanding of the curriculum. Considers benefits of the block for students and teachers, and the starting assumptions and goals of the schedule, along with cautions for change. (JPB)

Describes strategies used by one middle school to successfully challenge gifted students in the context of the regular classroom, satisfy their parents, and preserve the best of the middle school concept for all students. Strategies include block scheduling, regular schoolwide recognition programs, a school climate characterized by academic rigor…

Describes a type of block scheduling for middle schools that combines heterogeneous grouping in all subjects within the block and ability grouping. Presents a method of compiling data for block schedules to assist planning. (JPB)

Explains why block scheduling has become accepted practice at the secondary level and describes potential benefits for middle level schools. Shares common scheduling approaches and discusses their appropriateness for use at the middle level. Presents alternative models that would permit middle school faculties to capitalize on the benefits of…

Discusses the transition from traditional teaching and scheduling to a comprehensive block schedule with team teaching at the middle school level. Describes the process of educational change, including framing the problem, establishing consensus for change, creating pure teams, designing the master schedule; also discusses implementation issues.…

Discusses the affordability of implementing interdisciplinary teaching teams and block schedules in middle schools. Argues that the benefits of these school schedules and models make them worth the investment of time and money it takes to implement them. (JPB)

Identifies and explains the types of practices and interactions that interdisciplinary teaching teams engage in, which in turn influence instruction and student learning. Presents data to illustrate the impact of common planning time, team size, and scheduled teaming on team activities and interactions. (JPB)

Discusses differentiation in terms of the instructional program, school organization, staff development, and extensions beyond the classroom. Suggests learning activities with differing levels of cognitive challenge as vehicles for differentiated classrooms. Focuses curriculum on global citizenship and themes of identity, connections,…