The use of ability-grouping in primary schools is increasing. Policy plays a role in this increase, placing teachers in the difficult position of balancing policy directives with the needs of their class.

Teachers struggle to manage a wide attainment range and also to demonstrate differentiation, and many deal with this through ability-grouping.

But grouping by ability requires teachers to have a clear understanding of what ability is. While they may not all use the same definition, it is likely the words bright or less able child would re-occur if they were asked.

This may be due to the ideology of ability deeply embedded in the English education system which perpetuates a belief that children come ‘hard-wired’ with a certain level of ability that can be measured and accorded appropriate educational provision.

This ideology of ability is reinforced on a daily basis through the media and popular culture with the language of talent, ability and intelligence commonplace in everyday talk, and so such ideas become normalised. How often do we hear someone assert, without shame, that they are rubbish at maths?

So, when and where do children begin to engage with such beliefs? Is ability-grouping in primary schools resulting in children growing into adults who hold firm can/cannot do beliefs?

Rachel Marks tackles this problem head on in Ability-grouping in Primary Schools: Case Studies and Critical Debates which uses a case-study approach to investigate the critical debates around ability-grouping in primary schools.

It explores common practice in primary schools and considers whether we can reliably identify bright children and less able children. What do these terms mean and how do children feel about such practices? This book gives teachers a clear understanding of the implications for teaching and learning, and provides headteachers with an evidence base for deciding the role that ability-grouping should play in their school.

You can learn more about Rachel’s book on our website – just click here http://www.criticalpublishing.com/ability-grouping-in-primary-schools

And if you have any questions or queries about the book please do call 01727 851 462 or email di@criticalpublishing.com

Di Page
Critical Publishing