Teaching Multi Level classes Kulan, May 2011 R.Kalandarova

WHAT IS A MULTI- LEVEL CLASSROOM? * Combined classes of different year levels * Classes of mixed proficiency levels * Classes of mixed motivation levels

Ways: a) Sorting them into same ability groups mixed ability groups group work b) Pair work c) Individual work

low level groups * Keep it small *assign finite tasks * provide model on the board *identify model in the book * encourage students to refer the model for support

For example: If the task is to write a food shopping list. Make sure it can see words for food on the board or a vocabulary page in the book.

*make groups larger * assign extra and complex task * encourage St. to work independently from model (if the model on the board encourage them to turn away from it. High level groups

Mixed ability group is great way for students. Why?

Why? / Because Low level St. Above level St. will learn from are challanged more skilled by their leader- students ship roles

Sometimes falls apart ?

More –skilled students dominate while the lesser ST. withdraw. Ts’ should tell above level St. how to help their classmates. Describe how St. can help one another.

Examples: Activity: Read the story together. Above-level student: Read the story aloud to your partner. Activity: Practice dialogue together. Above-level student: Model the pronunciation of each line first. Activity: Ask and answer the discussion questions. Above-level student: Respond to the question first to model answers. Activity: Practice new vocabulary Above level student: Give an example of the word in a sentence

Role plays: Students act out situations using vocabulary and grammar they have studied. The pre-level student plays the role of the person who asks the questions. (The teacher can provide a paper with the questions listed.) The above- level student plays the role of the person responding, which allows for lots of improvisation and embellishments.

At the lesson At the lesson