[Oz-gifted] Ability grouping

[Kristy]

Hi all,

I dont know enough about this but would like to see if anyone has some 
input.

We would never consider age grouping of kids for many area's, swimming as an 
example, so why is it so important to age group for education purposes? I 
understand the social aspects that are thrown around often but dont feel 
this should be a deciding factor. My eldest is the youngest in his class but 
friends with the eldest. Its a MAG grouped class so the eldest are actually 
2 years older than him. I feel sometimes they underestimate the social 
abilities of many children and that given the chance they will find friends 
whether they are in the same class or not.

Wouldnt ability grouping make it easier on teachers? If they only need to 
cater for similar ability students programming should be an easier process.

The argument of having role models for those on the lower end of the scale 
can be countered by stating that ability grouping would allow those children 
to excel within their group instead of constantly being at the lower end of 
a class.

I am sure there are many reasons why this wouldnt be possible. I guess I am 
more curious to know if it has ever been considered or if it is used at all. 
Makes a whole lot more sense to me than age grouping of kids.

Thanks
Kristy