grade level, 6th through 8th. We currently have "tracked" or "leveled"
sections, one regular and one advanced, in each grade, but we're
looking at options, including: 1) heterogeneous groupings with
differentiated instruction in all grades; (2) heterogeneous in 6th and
then "tracked" in 7th and 8th; and (3) "tracked" in 7th and 8th but
with the grades combined in order to ensure more balanced class sizes.
Does anyone have experience with and preferences for any of these
options? Is there genuine justification for "tracking" in math, whereas
we have heterogeneous groupings in all other subjects? Does anyone have
an "algebra for all" program, whereby ALL middle schoolers graduate
having studied algebra, and does it work (or are some students "left in
the dust" because they're simply not ready for algebraic concepts; or
is the pace so quick that some are pushed from one concept to the next
before they're ready, consequently never really gain a strong
mathematics foundation that a more measured pace would afford)? And if
"tracked," who decides and what criteria are used-- do parents make
the final call or the school? Any and all answers are welcome and
appreciated; if it's easier to respond verbally, phone calls are also
an option!
Thanks.
Stephen R. Parnes
Head of Middle School and
Academic Dean
The Independent Day School
115 Laurel Brook Road
Middlefield, CT 06455
Phone (860) 347-7235
Fax (860) 347-8852
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