Academic Information

Theory of Action for Academic Blocks

If we increase instructional time through longer academic blocks, then we can implement curriculum with integrity and provide deeper learning experiences so that student learning outcomes improve. 

Core Academic Classes (Math, ELA, Science, Social Studies)	Previous Year Core Academic Minutes Per Class	25-26 Core Academic Minutes Per Class	Increase of Minutes Per Class
Per Day	43	57	14
Per Week	215	285	70
Per Year	7,740	10,260	2,520
Total	30,960	41,040	10,080

 

“A guaranteed and viable curriculum is the variable most strongly related to student achievement at the school level. That is, one of the most powerful things a school can do to help enhance student achievement is to guarantee that specific content is taught in specific courses and grade levels. It is important to note the two parts in the concept of a guaranteed and viable curriculum: The fact that it is guaranteed assures us that specific content is taught in specific courses and at specific grade levels, regardless of the teacher to whom a student is assigned. The fact that it is viable indicates that there is enough instructional time available to actually teach the content identified as important.” 

Robert Marzano