Four Block

Teachers in first and second grade use the Four Block Balanced Literacy approach to instruction. Kindergarten teachers use the Building Blocks Literacy approach. Both instructional styles are multilevel/multimethod instruction in the areas of language arts. Teachers use four different methods to teach reading on a daily basis. The first block is Guided Reading. This block teaches comprehension skills and reading strategies. The second block is Self-Selected reading. Children read at their own level and are introduced to all types of literature. Teacher conference with individual students about what they have read. The third block is the writing block and begins with a mini-lesson. Students write and learn about grammar and the mechanics of writing. The final block is Working with Words. This block teaches children how to read and spell high-frequency words. Check out the Word Wall (WW) in each classroom!

Four Square Writing

This organizational method is used consistently in first, second, and third grades. It is a graphic approach that empowers students to write with confidence. It addresses the fundamental writing skills for narrative, expository, and persuasive writing. The Four Square Writing Method is a visual and kinesthetic aid that teaches children focus, detail and enhances their word choice and vocabulary.