Ensuring Maximum Achievement

Have you ever spoken to a child about their special needs? What do they think about being in the bottom group?

I spent several months doing just that - and the results were facinating. Children are fully aware of what they can and can`t do - not only that but they are very aware of which group they are in in the classroom. A year five child told me - its doesnt matter what you call it I know I`m in the bottom group. This really affected me as a teacher and from that day forward I aways tried to make any groupings a little less obvious and ensure that is children didn`t need to be in groups according to ability that they weren`t.

As a one to one (or small group) tutor I can give children the confidence to be part of a group in school, either by ensuring they have the skills to contribute or supporting them so that they improve their level of ability.

I would ask all teachers - think before you put children in ability based groups - are you really doing the best for every child in your care?