Parent Press

a Goally Publication

Parent Press

a Goally Publication

Get

Goally

Flexible Grouping for Students with Learning Differences

Home>>Neurodiversopedia>>F Terms

Summary

summary

Flexible grouping is a way teachers can help kids with special needs in the classroom. The teacher changes how kids are grouped based on their abilities and needs so each student gets the support they need to learn. This helps kids with special needs keep up with their classmates and reach their full potential.

Table of Contents

table-of-contents

Frequently Asked Question

donut

How can flexible grouping benefit kids with special needs?

Flexible grouping can benefit kids with special needs by allowing the teacher to tailor the learning environment to meet the individual needs of each student. This can help the students stay engaged and focused and can improve their chances of success in the classroom.

How can a teacher determine which group a student should be in for flexible grouping?

A teacher can determine which group a student should be in by assessing the student’s strengths and weaknesses, learning style, behavior, and other factors. The teacher can also make changes to the groupings as needed to make sure each student is getting the support they need to succeed.

Can flexible grouping be used for students with a variety of special needs, not just ADHD?

Yes, flexible grouping can be used for students with a variety of special needs, not just ADHD. The method can be adapted to meet the needs of students with different learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, or emotional needs. The key is to work with each student individually and make adjustments as needed to support their unique needs and abilities.

image-banner

Scientific Definition

scientist

Flexible grouping is a teaching method used in classrooms to help kids with special needs. These kids might have learning disabilities, physical disabilities, or emotional needs that make it harder for them to learn in a regular classroom. In flexible grouping, the teacher puts students in different groups based on their needs and abilities. This helps the teacher to give each student the attention and support they need to learn. Students who struggle to read might be in a group with similar difficulties. A student who excels in math might be in a group with other math stars. This way, the teacher can help each student work on the things they need to work on the most while also giving them a chance to learn with kids who have similar interests. Flexible grouping ensures that kids with special needs have the chance to succeed in the classroom and reach their full potential.

Video Explanation

video-explanation

Real World Example of Flexible Grouping

Meet Susie, a bright and enthusiastic third-grader who loves exploring the world through books. However, she struggles with math and often feels overwhelmed during class activities. Fortunately, her school implements flexible grouping to cater to individual needs, and it has been transformative for Susie:

  • Identifying Strengths: Through flexible grouping, Susie’s teacher noticed her passion for reading and love for storytelling. She was placed in a group of avid readers who shared her interests.
  • Tailored Support: In Susie’s math group, the teacher provided personalized attention, addressing her specific challenges and helping her build confidence.
  • Positive Peer Influence: Susie’s reading group became her support system, encouraging her to explore complex texts and express her thoughts openly.
  • Boosting Self-Esteem: As Susie excelled in reading, her self-esteem soared, positively impacting her overall academic performance.
  • Inclusive Learning: Susie’s class also embraced mixed-ability group projects, fostering an inclusive environment where each student’s unique strengths were valued.

Flexible grouping empowered Susie to thrive academically and emotionally, proving that personalized approaches make a world of difference in a child’s education.

How Does Flexible Grouping Work?

Flexible grouping is a dynamic teaching approach that categorizes students based on their needs and abilities. Here are some examples of how it works in action:

  • Identifying Needs: Teachers assess each student’s learning requirements, considering academic strengths and challenges, as well as social and emotional needs.
  • Group Formation: Students are placed into small groups based on common characteristics. For instance, struggling readers may be grouped together, while advanced learners form another cluster.
  • Customized Instruction: Teachers design lesson plans and activities tailored to each group’s specific needs, ensuring targeted learning and support.
  • Rotating Groups: Students might move between different groups for various subjects or tasks, allowing them to interact and learn with different peers.
  • Collaborative Learning: Within their groups, students collaborate on projects, discuss ideas, and support each other’s progress.
  • Regular Evaluation: Teachers continuously assess students’ progress and adjust groupings as needed to optimize learning outcomes.

Flexible grouping ensures that each student receives customized support, leading to enhanced learning outcomes and a positive classroom experience. Goally’s tablet and apps support kids with diverse needs like learning disabilities, language challenges, and emotional development through fun and effective tools like visual schedules, AAC, gamified learning, and social skills training.

 

This post was originally published on Feb. 7, 2023. It was updated on July 21, 2023.

image-banner

About

Company info

Media requests

Contact us

Our Services

Warranty

Terms Of use

Privacy Policy

Our Website

Neurodiversopedia

Parent Press

Privacy Policy