By April Connelley
Managing a 90- or 120-minute reading block can be challenging. While schools and districts provide recommendations, the key is balancing structure with flexibility to ensure effective instruction.
Finding the Balance
Overly loose expectations create confusion, while overly rigid ones stifle professional judgment. The goal is to set clear expectations while allowing teachers the flexibility to meet student needs. Here’s how:
Strategy #1: Foster Open Communication
Encourage dialogue between teachers and administrators. Asking, “Why did you do it this way?” should be seen as a learning opportunity rather than a challenge. Open communication builds trust and supports collaboration.
Strategy #2: Use Guidelines, Not Strict Time Blocks
Reading block guidelines should be targets, not rigid mandates. Understanding expectations helps teachers stay on track while allowing for necessary adjustments—just like maintaining a balanced diet. Without guidelines, some areas of literacy instruction may be overlooked or overemphasized.
Strategy #3: Let Data Drive Decisions
Teachers and administrators should adjust instructional time and methods based on student data. For example, if most fourth graders struggle with multisyllabic words, consider shifting the schedule to provide targeted support, such as extra small-group instruction or short-term adjustments in whole-group lessons.
Strategy #4: Identify and Address Trends
Don’t panic over isolated instances—focus on patterns. What I mean by this is, if you are consistently missing the same component or recommendation in your guidelines that’s a trend. Address trends. Don’t panic if it is a one time. For example, your read-aloud taking extra time daily for 3 weeks is a trend and should be addressed, but if it goes over one day, that is just part of teaching.
Final Thoughts
Striking the right balance in reading block expectations is crucial. Holding guidelines too loosely or too rigidly hinders student success. By applying these four strategies, educators can create a structured yet flexible reading block that maximizes learning for all students.
