That Time of Year...Again!

For those of us on the traditional track, the first week of school has been completed! Hope everyone has rested over the weekend and is ready to tackle week two.

I teach 6th grade English Language Arts in a rural school here in Duplin County, North Carolina. So far, this year's group of kids seems very likable. It is always so interesting to see them transitioning from elementary into the middle school setting. You should have seen all of us that first time at the lockers!

While the first couple of weeks back to school seems stressful each year, I am lucky to work with a great 6th grade team! We really enjoy the collaborative approach, and work well together using the middle school teaming concept.

Over the past few years, 6th grade students have been academically "grouped" for core classes. Since doing so, our EOG scores have improved and growth has really increased. However, this year our principal has mandated that all classes be mixed (heterogenous). I know there are pros and cons to grouping.

I was wondering what other educator's thoughts, opinions, and experience have been with grouping.....Let's Blog About It!