Longer Learning Blocks at Expanded Learning Time Schools

Much research over the past decade has pointed to the value of longer learning blocks for improving student learning and engagement. The rationale for longer learning blocks is based on research on how the human brain processes and learns new information. For example, a longer learning block allows teachers more time to establish the “relevancy” of the lesson by relating it to student’s immediate life experiences. It allows teachers to “hook” students with special activities, videos, demonstrations, or anecdotes that engage their interest. The longer blocks also allow teachers to approach material from multiple angles, paying attention to students’ different learning styles. With a longer class period, teachers can teach a lesson, check for mastery, and then re-teach that lesson using an alternative method or approach, thereby ensuring greater comprehension.

Many of the ELT schools leverage the additional time in the school day to expand classroom time for core academic subjects from 45–50 minutes to 75–90 minutes. In some cases, students have longer learning blocks in all subjects at least twice a week. Other schools implement longer learning blocks specifically for certain subjects based on their school-wide academic focus area.