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Ability Grouping Boosts High Achievers

A new study shows that teaching students in ability groups helps high achievers without harming less able students' progress.

Source:theguardian.com

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Standard — Natural English

59 words · ~1 min read
Research from University College London indicates that grouping students by ability in math classes improves outcomes for high-achieving students without negatively impacting the progress of less able pupils. The study reveals that students in mixed-ability classes made slower progress, and those in ability groups showed better self-confidence in math. This challenges previous beliefs about the effects of ability grouping.

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Test your understanding

Test your understanding

01What does the study suggest about high-achieving students in mixed-ability classes?

02What was the impact of ability grouping on less able pupils?

03Who conducted the research on ability grouping?

04What did the study find regarding self-confidence in mixed-attainment schools?

Discussion

Discussion

What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of ability grouping in education?

Vocabulary

Vocabulary

  • ability grouping word

    organizing students based on their skill levels

    “Ability grouping can help teachers tailor lessons to different students.”

  • progress word

    advancement or improvement in learning

    “Students showed great progress in their math skills.”

  • self-confidence word

    belief in one's own abilities

    “High self-confidence can lead to better performance in school.”

  • socioeconomically disadvantaged word

    having less economic and social advantages

    “Programs aim to support socioeconomically disadvantaged students.”

  • research word

    systematic investigation to establish facts

    “The research provided new insights into teaching methods.”