Block Scheduling – A Student’s Perspective

This article is a student’s perspective on how to block schedule.

In general, I find block scheduling to work very well for me. While it isn’t for everyone, it definitely should be looked into as an alternate route in scheduling especially if you find yourself struggling to keep up with all your subjects at once.

Homeschool girl doing block scheduling.
Give Block Scheduling a Try!

 

Pros

  • I get to concentrate on one subject at a time. I can essentially “forget” about history or literature while working on science. This tricks me into feeling like I have less schoolwork when all I’ve done is substitute.
  • I don’t have to worry about confusing different subject material on tests or worksheets. Some history and literature programs can run very closely together and it’s easier to only have to remember one set of names, dates, and facts for tests instead of two at a time.
  • It helps motivate me because after only three weeks, I’ve already completed a quarter of a certain subject. This creates a sense of accomplishment and self-pride in my work.
  • If I dislike a certain subject, I don’t have to do it for a certain segment of time and who doesn’t like that?
  • I don’t easily get burned out on a certain subject since I get to take longer breaks in between short concentrated periods of work.

Cons

  • If I do dislike a certain subject, I have to focus a large amount of time only working on that subject. I don’t have two (or any number) of other subjects to distract me from it.
  • It is a lot of work on only one subject. While you can take short study breaks, be aware that you will be spending a lot of time doing the same thing.
    • If you dislike variety, then this would be a pro.
    • If you like a medium amount of variety, you should be fine.
    • However, if you need to be doing something different all the time, this would be a con.

The Result

I have done block scheduling for two full years and am working on my third. I highly recommend this way of organizing your school year. While it isn’t for everyone, remember that every plan is flexible. You are the boss and you can shift things to how you like them.

Happy Block Scheduling!

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