Arguments for and against block and seven-period schedules, which Forest Lake will combine in the fall: FOUR-PERIOD SCHEDULE
• Proponents say the model works better for hands-on classes such as science and gives students a better taste of college classes, which meet for longer periods during the day and move through material more quickly.
• Many say the system doesn't work for math and world languages, which build on concepts and are learned by repetition.
SEVEN-PERIOD SCHEDULE
• Core subjects stretch over a school year, allowing students more time to absorb material and learn through homework.
• Switching classes every 50 minutes forces students to handle a broad range of topics and gives teachers less time to cover material in a single setting.
BEN GOESSLING
