The history of ability grouping, especially since 1920, is reviewed and three recent surveys on its use are described. Current data was collected from school officials in all states concerning: the grade levels at which grouping is used; the length of time it has been used; the bases on which students are assigned to groups; the number of students…

This paper synthesizes the three substantive reports on ability grouping described in TM 000 501-503. It lists the characteristics of ability grouping as practised in American school systems. Extensive conclusions and recommendations, generally unfavorable to ability grouping are given. Alternative educational strategies for improvement of…

In this comprehensive review, important studies from the literature relevant to the impact of ability grouping on students are summarized. The following are considered: the effect of heterogeneous and homogeneous grouping practices on academic achievement and affective development; the tendency of ability grouping to produce separation of students…

Ability grouping, defined as "the practice of organizing classroom groups in a graded school to put together children of a given age and grade who have most nearly the same standing on measures or judgments of learning achievement or capability," is considered in terms of its effect upon students' academic achievement and affective development. It…