Though direct instruction is probably the oldest form of teaching, it came into a more modern light when a program was created by a professor at Johns Hopkins University in the mid-1980s as a way to address the problems of inner-city Baltimore schools.  In this program, which focused on reading instruction, ninety minutes each day were dedicated to pre-ordained lesson plans and worksheets.  The plan primarily featured scripted instruction and specific activities in which children engaged for defined periods of time.