Differentiation in mixed-grade classrooms

Abstract

'Mixed-grade' and 'mixed-age' are broad terms for referring to classes with students who are not all the same or a very similar age. Within these two broad categories are specific types of mixed-grade class. Research carried out in one type -- non-graded classrooms -- consistently shows positive results for gifted and talented students. Results are strong in both cognitive and affective areas. In this article, differentiation in the types of mixed-grade class will be described, together with a brief summary of the research findings. The types of strategies used by mixed-grade teachers to differentiate (cater for diversity), including some examples, will also be briefly described.