The Four Blocks Reading Framework
by Krista Nail
August 29, 2009
This year, the Early Childhood Academy (Kindergarten - 3rd grade) is integrating the Four Blocks Framework with our current reading program, Open Court. The Four Blocks model includes a Guided Reading Block, Self-Selected Reading Block, Working with Words Block, and Writing Block.
In the classroom, the Guided Reading Block allows the class to read a teacher-selected story together, in small groups, with partners, or with the teacher. The focus is on comprehension (understanding) skills and strategies.
During the Self-Selected Reading Block, students choose stories that are of interest to them. The stories may include fiction and/or non-fiction titles. The teacher "conferences" with each student approximately every other week to monitor the student's independent reading progress. The teacher typically listens to the student read a couple of pages from his/her story and asks questions about the story. Students are also encouraged to share information about their books with their classmates at the end of the Self-Selected Reading Block each day.
The Working with Words Block offers the students the opportunity to practice their sight-word vocabulary, phonics, and spelling skills. The teacher presents five new word wall words every week. Over time, the word wall grows. Each day, the teacher plans an activity to teach the words on the word wall, and then presents lessons on phonics, word blending, spelling patterns, etc.
The final block is the Writing Block. Every session in the classroom begins with a "mini-lesson" where the teacher models writing skills and strategies . At New Frontiers, we integrate the Six Traits model into the Writing Block. These traits include voice, organization, word choice, sentence fluency, and conventions (grammar/punctuation). The students practice writing in various formats, and the teacher "conferences" with each student approximately every two weeks to review their writing pieces, and provide individual guidance.
At home, you can use the Four Blocks Framework too.
Guided Reading activities at home begin by selecting a story to read together with your child. The story should not be too difficult. In fact, it is okay to select a story that seems rather simple for your child to read. As you read together (perhaps by taking turns), you should frequently pause to check for understanding. Ask questions like:
Who are the characters?
What makes the character(s) special?
What do you think will happen....?
Why do you think....?
Have you ever had a similar experience....?
Why do you think the author wrote this story?
If you could change the story, what would you change?
What was the problem in the story, and how was the problem solved?
Students who are not yet reading can listen to you read the story and answer questions as you read.
Self-Selected activities at home can be supported by visits to your local library. You don't have to limit your child's options to just books, however. Students should be allowed to read anything they are interested in - magazines, newspapers, instruction and how-to guides, recipes books, web-based stories, etc. Every once in a while, ask your child about the story they are reading. Also show them that reading is a joy by reading something yourself. Be sure to tell your child all about the book you are reading too!
Words are all around us, so Working with Words is simple. You can easily point out words in our world as you drive through the neighborhood, shop at the grocery store, or stroll through the mall. As you see words, ask your child things like, "What sound does that word begin/end with?" or "How many syllables are in that word?" Play rhyming games. You can also make or buy sight-word flashcards. Lists of sight-words are easy to find online, or you can request a list from your child's teacher. However, the best word-activities are usually the messiest ones. You can have your child spell words in shaving cream or pudding smeared on the table. You can have him/her "paint" the words on your dirty car with a wet paintbrush or finger. Or you can have them make the words out of Play-doh. The more fun (and messy) the better!
Finally, writing at home can be a breeze if your child has a special journal or diary. Younger students can "write" in their journals through pictures. Older students can write thoughts and stories in their journal each evening before bed. Writing letters and cards is also enjoyable for many children. Encourage your child's creativity by allowing them to compose silly, sad, or scary stories... the possibilities are endless.
As you start to encourage some of the Four Blocks activities in your home, remember that reading and writing activities should never be used as punishment. Children in Kindergarten through 3rd grade are just beginning their journey learning to read and write and their experiences with these activities should be fun and rewarding!
At New Frontiers, we are confident that the Four Blocks Framework is going to strengthen our already outstanding reading program. By having you, our educational partner, reinforcing activities at home our students will surely blossom into enthusiastic readers and writers.
For more information about the Four Blocks Framework, or any of our reading programs, you can contact your child's teacher or Krista Nail at 533-3655.
