Modifying the primary curriculum to suit mixed ability classes

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the notion of mixed ability in the context of the curriculum making and the necessary requisites within the primary curriculum which would make successful mixed ability teaching. In order to develop these requisites the author has attempted to design and develop learning processes to demonstrate the validity of this issue. This included the design of a variety of learning options whi~h permit to tap the different readiness levels and interests of children when they are recognised as individuals learners. Considering the conclusions derived from the local research carried out for this study, the notion of mixed ability teaching turned out to be not so popular amongst Year 4 primary teachers. Consequently, the problems in adopting such a system were discussed and essential changes proposed within the Maltese educational system which would lead teachers to reconsider their views regarding this issue. However apart from giving particular importance to differentiation the author focuses also on the idea that a curriculum has to be continuously active keeping up to today's realities around the world.