Research | Using Small Groups to Differentiate Instruction

3. Students can benefit from time receiving direct instruction (in whole and small groups), but they can also benefit from time practicing new skills and working with peers in child-managed instructional contexts. Research shows that, when students have the language skills required to access an activity, spending time on meaning- focused activities with peers or independently leads to greater growth than only practicing with adult support (Connor et al., 2009b; Connor et al., 2011b; Connor et al., 2013). The benefits of child-managed instruction tend to increase as a school year progresses. Small groups provide an excellent opportunity for most of a class to take part in child-managed work while one small group works with the teacher.

ALIGNING PRACTICE WITH RESEARCH TOPIC PAPER 7

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