1. Walk to Read Walk to Math Diana Harris Fall 2010

2. Definition
Joplin Plan - Heterogeneous classrooms, regrouping cross grade level by performance in reading and math
Ability grouping – Students of similar ability in the same grade are grouped together
Cluster grouping – grouping together all of the gifted students from a specific grade while heterogeneously dividing the remaining students in that grade

3. Definition
Students expected to move over time to higher performing groups
One instructional level, enabling teachers to move at a very rapid rate
Entire block of uninterrupted language arts or math
Level and rate adapted to performance level

4. Benefits Success is realized and achieved
Direct meaningful instruction at their level and rate
No busy seatwork for students who are not in the group
Improved performance and achievement in all students
Planning only for one reading group, not two, three, or …

5. Benefits Less discipline problems Students more engaged
Students not falling through the cracks
More opportunities for differentiated instruction
In depth independent work for higher level students

6. Benefits Guided instruction time for lower students
Language developmentally appropriate for the group
More personal attention for each child
Closer in skill level can move faster
Entire period to teach language arts and math

7. Disadvantages Scheduling New and out of our comfort level
Extreme low end upper grade children
Tough spot, but if you experience failure every day, you’re not getting any benefit
Success is an excellent motivator
Role model, tutoring, LRC

8. Disadvantages Extreme high end – upper grade students
May still have huge span
Difficult to communicate with parents (assignments missing, what level)
Accountability if not in home room
Communication with teachers, conferences
Blended classrooms
Supplies

9. What the Research Indicates
Joplin has been extensively studied over the years
Improves student achievement
Greater gains in reading and mathematics than mixed-ability groups
Performance grouping got better results than any other type of grouping

10. Implementation Thoughts
Scheduling
Determine groups - Assessment
Staff assignments – teachers and aides
Frequently reassess student performance, at least every eight weeks
Flexible not permanent groups that allow movement within groups
Vary level and rate
Number of students per class

11. Resources http://www.ericdigests.org/pre-927/grouping.htm

12. Questions?