Mixed Ability

Dealing With Different Language Levels

After the first weeks getting to know the students, it was evident that there were different language levels among the students. We have weekly meetings in the English department with all the teachers to talk about various topics revolving around the students. 

One of the main concerns of the teachers was bridging the language gap between the most advanced students, and the lowest performing students. Our main goal was to make sure that all the students were speaking in class. 

The teachers and I collaborated on creating a list of students that were considered the lower performing students. During my classes with them, I would make sure to call on them at least once during the class so to make sure they had a chance to speak. 

Sometimes it would be easy to forget to call on them because the more advanced students would be eager to answer the questions first. This method I felt, made sure that we could focus on the quieter students, but also see what areas they need to improve on so we could help their language learning improve. 

I also felt with some students that their confidence began to increase in their speaking, because they were growing more accustomed to answering questions and speaking more. 

Stacey McKendry
Language Assistant at IES Fleming

December 2014