The Four Blocks Literacy Model

The Four Blocks Literacy Model
What Is It?
Developed more than a decade ago by literacy experts Dr. Patricia Cunningham and Dr. Dorothy Hall in conjunction with first grade teacher, Margaret DeFee, Four Blocks is a balanced-literacy* framework for teaching language arts in grades 1-3. The Four Blocks program -- based on the premise that all children don‘t learn in the same way -- integrates four language arts areas into reading instruction. Those areas are: guided reading, self-selected reading, writing, and working with words.
Although originally created for use in first grade, Four Blocks has been adapted for use in other grades as well: Building Blocks provides a foundation for language, print, and literacy in kindergarten, while Big Blocks emphasizes activities appropriate for grades 4-8.
Explore It
To learn more about the Four Blocks literacy model, explore the following Web sites:About Four BlocksThe Four Blocks Literacy ModelFour Blocks Literacy Framework from blocks4reading.comFour Blocks Programs and PracticesWhat is the Four Blocks? The Four Blocks Literacy Model
 
Use It!
The activities and lessons below will help you use the Four Blocks literacy model in your classroom.4 Blocks Literacy in Kankakee (Illinois)Four Blocks4 Blocks Literacy Lesson Plans from Teachers.netBuilding Blocks Lessons from Teachers.netFour Block LessonsTeacher‘s Desk Activities the 4 Block Way
 
Learn More About It
To extend your understanding of the Four Blocks literacy model, visit the following Web sites:The Four Blocks Literacy ModelHow does a 4-blocks classroom look? Building BlocksAn Introduction to the Building Blocks Literacy Model4 Blocks For The Upper GradesThe Big Blocks Literacy FrameworkBig BlocksBig Blocks Literacy Model4 Blocks Literacy Framework
 
Learn More About Balanced Literacy*
To learn more about balanced literacy, visit the following Web sites:What Does a Balanced Literacy Approach Mean?What Is Balanced Literacy?Balanced LiteracyTUSD Balanced Literacy BookletsK-6 Balanced Literacy PackIn Internet-Based Treasure Hunt on Balanced Literacy
 
 
 
Article by Linda Starr
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