Managing mixed-ability classrooms: tips for ERM teachers

Stephanie Lam
21 hours ago
2 min read

Mixed-ability teaching is one of the defining features of ERM. In a single class, you might have a doctor sitting next to someone who never attended school. One student may read fluently in three languages whilst another struggles with basic literacy.

How do you meet everyone's needs?

Accept that you can't do everything

First, let go of the idea that every student will engage with every activity at the same level. Your goal isn't identical outcomes – it's progress for each individual.

Differentiate activities, not content

Teach the same core language to everyone, but vary how students engage with it. Whilst teaching vocabulary about food, stronger students might write sentences, whilst beginners match words to pictures. Everyone's working on the same topic.

Use open-ended tasks

Activities without a single correct answer allow everyone to participate. Describing a picture works for all levels. Beginners might name objects. Intermediate students might describe locations. Advanced learners could speculate about the story.

Pair stronger students with weaker ones carefully

Peer support can work brilliantly – or create resentment. Make sure stronger students benefit too, perhaps by explaining concepts which reinforces their learning. Rotate partners regularly.

Create flexible small groups

Different tasks suit different groupings. Sometimes group by level so you can target support. Other times mix abilities to encourage peer learning. Occasionally let students choose their own groups.

Prepare extension activities

Always have something extra for fast finishers. This might be additional practice, a challenge question, or helping a peer. Never let capable students sit idle.

Monitor and adjust constantly

Move around the classroom, checking understanding. Be prepared to simplify explanations or add complexity. Flexibility matters more than sticking rigidly to a plan.

Mixed-ability teaching demands creativity and resilience, but it also brings richness that benefits everyone.

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