A Teacher’s Guide to Flexible Grouping and Collaborative Learning
Subtitle
Form, Manage, Assess, and Differentiate in Groups
Edited by Meg Bratch
This book leads readers through the process of teaching in flexibly grouped classrooms by first developing an understanding of the purpose of grouping for effective instruction. The authors then discuss methods for forming and managing grouped classrooms, which leads to instructional practices and support, lesson design, and the purpose and use of assessments in ability-grouped classes.
The authors share that many teachers want to incorporate flexible grouping practices into their routine that allow for targeted instruction. However, few have training and support in how to implement, manage and document the effectiveness of groups. This book discusses various aspects of best instructional practices and presents them in the context of teaching flexible learning groups within a classroom, grade level or school. Part one of the book discusses why and how to group students in mixed ability classrooms, and part two describes instructional methods for teaching in classes that flexibly group students. The book is intended for teachers, school administrators, instructional coaches and anyone involved in determining class placements or providing professional development. The purpose is twofold: The first is to guide school staff in determining appropriate classroom grouping. The second is to introduce methods for managing and effectively teaching to the needs of students with varying ability and achievement levels, readiness and interests.
Bio
Dina Brulles is the director of gifted education at Paradise Valley Unified School District and the gifted program coordinator at ASU. Brulles serves on the National Association for Gifted Children Board of Directors as the school district representative. Brulles was a recipient of the 2014 NAGC Gifted Coordinator Award and also NAGC Professional Development Network Award in 2013.