The+Heterogeneous+Classroom

Of course, not every student in your classroom will be able to learn in the same way. Some will be at a higher achievement level, whereas others will not understand the material very well. Some will learn best through lecturing and note-taking, others through more hands-on, kinesthetic and/or artistic activities. Just remember these helpful tips!


 * Entering Achievement**


 * Achievement levels should be determined as soon as possible; this is called "entering achievement"
 * Review the students' past work in previous classes to get a general idea (remember to look at a variety!)
 * Continue to monitor progress through ongoing testing
 * Norm-referenced tests are used to compare students to each other; criterion-referenced tests compare students to what is expected of them
 * Introduce a variety of short activities and observe the students' progress through notes or assignments; adjust the lesson based on the findings
 * Acknowledge the students' special needs, if any, as well as interests and background
 * Group Instruction**


 * Make sure every student is an active participant; assign roles if appropriate
 * Give individual as well as group feedback
 * When working with the class as a whole, consider seating arrangement to minimize distractions
 * Peer tutoring is a useful tool; pair an incompetent student with a knowledgeable one
 * Be wary when using small-group instruction; it usually takes up more time and resources
 * Prepare for instruction, use time productively, create a positive environment

Sources: __Classroom Management for Middle and High School Teachers__ by Edmund T. Emmer and Carolyn M. Evertson __Effective Instruction for Students with Special Needs__ by Bob Algozzine and Jim Ysseldyke