As a high schooler or parent, have you ever looked at your schedule and wondered – just how many periods make up the school day? I remember feeling confused glancing at the colorful grid of classes and numbers mapped out for each day.
In this quick guide, I‘ll provide a straightforward overview of the standard period models used in most U.S. high schools. Whether you‘rePreparing for freshman year or just curious, you‘ll learn:
- What periods actually are
- Why schools schedule using periods
- How many periods are typical
- How long periods usually last
- The pros and cons of different models
Let‘s break it down step-by-step to demystify things!
Let‘s Start With the Basics: What Are Periods?
In high school, periods refer to the different blocks of time set aside for individual subjects during the school day.
Instead of focusing on just one or two big subjects, periods allow schools to divide up the day into smaller segments. Each period highlights a specific academic area, and lasts for a defined duration.
Over 75% of U.S. high schools structure schedules using periods.
Why Do Schools Use Periods?
There are some key reasons why periods are standard in high schools:
1. Exposure to Diverse Subjects
Periods enable students to study a wide range of topics – from algebra, to literature, to biology – all within a single day!
This ensures high schoolers develop knowledge across core subjects needed for college and modern careers.
2. Customized Schedules
By offering multiple periods focused on different specialties, schools empower students to tailor schedules matching individual skills, needs and interests each term.
For example, budding engineers can load up on advanced science classes, while creative types access more arts electives.
3. Engagement and Focus
Sitting through long lessons covering one subject nonstop can tax anyone‘s attention span. Periods provide mental breaks as students transition to new topics and classrooms through the day.
This rhythmic schedule generally keeps students more stimulated, helping them retain information better as well.
Now that we know why high schools use periods, how many are actually in a standard schedule?
Typical Number of High School Periods
While school schedules can vary greatly, the majority of U.S. high schools structure days using either:
- A 6-8 period day schedule
- An A/B block schedule
Let‘s explore the numbers and durations behind each model…
6-8 Period Day Schedule
The most common design divides days into 6 to 8 distinct class periods:
- 6 period schedule: 6 classes per day. Each period lasts roughly 50-60 minutes.
- 7 period schedule: 7 daily periods. Each is approx. 45 minutes long.
- 8 period schedule: 8 classes per day. Period durations are typically 40-50 minutes.
According to Time and Learning Inc., over 60% of high schools currently follow a straightforward 6, 7 or 8 period bell schedule across all weekdays.
A/B Block Schedule
Meanwhile, block scheduling adopts a unique rotation:
- Classes last roughly 80-90 minutes each
- Students take 3-4 periods per day
- An "A day" schedule alternates with a "B day" schedule all week
This means students toggle between longer science, English and math classes on A days, and history, arts, and electives on B days, for example.
Over 25% of high schools have moved to an every-other-day block schedule system.
In addition to defining number of periods, schools also consider duration decisions…
Typical High School Period Lengths
Whether following a 6-8 period day or A/B block design, individual class durations also impact schedules.
Here‘s an overview of typical period lengths:
- 6-8 period schedule: Periods range from 40-60 minutes. 50 minutes is most common.
- Block schedule: Class times span 80-90 minutes to enable extended activities.
In deciding period numbers and lengths, schools weigh tradeoffs like covering curriculum requirements, upholding teacher contract hours, retaining student focus, and enabling beneficial learning activities over the course a week.
Next, let‘s analyze the overall pros and cons of the main schedule models used…
Comparing Period Schedule Models
When designing master schedules, school administrators carefully balance many moving parts – fixed graduation requirements, teacher resources, classroom availability, learning research and more.
Students and parents should also understand the implications of schedule models when selecting schools. Let‘s break down the overall upsides and downsides:
6-8 Period Day Schedule
Pros:
- Offers structure and predictability week-to-week
- Enabled by most teacher contracts
- Accommodates after-school activities
- Period lengths permit varied learning activities
Cons:
- Fixed periods limit subject choices and customization
- More daily transitions between classes
- Long hours with many subjects can fatigue focus
A/B Block Schedule
Pros:
- Longer class times suit extended projects
- Students concentrate on fewer daily subjects
- Week-long rotations aid knowledge retention
Cons:
- Seeing subjects every other day disrupts continuity
- Condense schedule challenges covering all material
- Mentally tiring for those with shorter attention spans
Again – strengths and limitations exist with any model.But by understanding the core approaches, students and parents can determine what best supports individual learning needs and styles at a given high school.
The Bottom Line on High School Periods
While confusing at first glance, high school periods simply break up days into blocks focusing on distinct subjects. This alternating schedule exposes students to more diverse areas of study versus just dedicating whole days to one or two topics.
Most schools follow either a 6-8 period schedule with 40-60 minute classes, or an every-other-day A/B block schedule structure with 80-90 minute periods instead.
When examining high school options, consider whether advantages like schedule predictability, subject variety, class length or optimized project time matters most based on your strengths and needs.
Learning more about the period models underlying the master schedule empowers you to find your best fit environment and excel throughout high school!