How to Teach a Multi-Age Classroom

Older children can improve their own reading skills and teach others by reading to younger students.

Multi-age classrooms can be a very successful educational tool when used correctly. The children are taught in a variety of different methods that are always age-appropriate, and learn to work together and co-operate in order to be successful. It is important that a multi-age classroom is very well planned and monitored, however, to ensure that each and every student is thriving.

Instructions

1. Make a schedule that decides when the class will work together, and when the students will split into age-appropriate activities. For example, all children could join in with gardening or gym, if the older children help the younger. At other times, the class will need to split, so that both sets of children can learn independently.

2. Set weekly assignments for older children. Think along the lines of projects and studies which may be set as homework. For example, you may ask the older children to research Egyptians, and make a project, either individually or in small groups. When you are working with younger children, the older children can then work on their weekly project.

3. Allow the children to teach each other. A good example of this is using the projects older children complete. At the end of the week, introduce the topic the older children have been working on to the younger ones, and let the older children present their findings. This will help the older children to develop both their understanding of the project and their presentation skills, and it will teach the younger children. Other examples include allowing older children to read to younger ones.

4. Encourage the older children to lead younger ones. This is especially important when a new group of children join the class. The older children can show the younger ones where things are, and how to do things, which helps make the transition into a new class easier. It also encourages the older children to learn leadership skills.

5. Set up the classroom to encourage individual learning. Have art shelves, science shelves, and book cases with age-appropriate books. Encourage students who the lesson is not directed at to explore the room quietly and teach themselves with their free time. This self-directed learning is usually very successful and productive, and allows a student to explore subjects they are very interested in, or enjoy.

6. Pair up children for complex projects. Ask older children to help a younger child achieve a joint aim, ensuring the older child is supportive and helpful, and does not do the whole project themselves.

7. Monitor the class carefully. Look at how each child is progressing, and keep a record of this so you can ensure every child thrives. Regular testing can be one way to get regular progress updates, although observation should also be used.

Tips & Warnings

• Holding a meeting with parents before their children join a multi-age classroom can be beneficial, as this makes sure no parents are worried about their child joining the class.

References

• Share 2 Learn: Components Of A Multi-age Classroom
• "Begin with the Brain: Orchestrating the Learner-Centered Classroom"; Martha M. Kaufeldt; 2008
• "Joyful Learning: Active and Collaborative Learning in Inclusive Classrooms"; Alice Udvari-Solner and Paula M. Kluth; 2008