The validity of an arm extension test as an index of language dominance of the brain was investigated. High and low achievers were given several measures of laterality. Agreement with other measures ranged from 35 to 75 percent, with a phi coefficient of .10. The validity of the test is questionable. (RD)

In a study of seventh graders playing concept and skill games in mathematics, it was found that grouping students according to prior achievement did not make a major difference in their learning. (JD)

Examines two factors in social class bias in schooling: (1) the bias of school personnel as reflected in teacher classroom behavior and ability grouping decisions; and (2) the schools' meritocratic ideology. (EF)

A look at identification, grouping, and instruction techniques, followed by an assessment of the legality of a properly administered tracking system and an enumeration of guidelines and due process procedures that must be followed. (Author/MLF)

This study attempted to determine if teachers discriminate against female learners of mathematics. More than 1000 secondary mathematics teachers were asked to grade four geometry proofs. Student sex and ability were the independent variables. Analysis yielded no significant F ratios for either of the main effects or their interaction. (Author/MK)

Since "external differentiation" (grouping by ability) has created difficulties, especially in larger schools, comprehensive schools, and orientation courses, a trend toward individualized instruction has arisen. The difficulties in implementing this are discussed here. Improving the external differentiation is advocated as preferable to…

Explores whether protecting a relative advantage explains the persistence of ability grouping. Examines 435 parents' beliefs about ability grouping from three perspectives--social pressures, teacher management, and student effects. Examines income and education variables. Parents who are relatively advantaged, with higher incomes and educational…

Studied the impact of ability grouping on attainment in a cohort of year-9 students in 45 mixed secondary schools in England representing a variety of grouping practices. In mathematics, students at higher levels by year 6 make more progress in sets, but those in lower levels make more progress in mixed ability classes. Discusses educational…

Placement data on 582 graduates of public special education preschool programs in Washington indicated that 36 percent of the children were placed in regular education and 65 percent in special education. Placement stability one and two years later was high, with 62 percent of those changing placements moving to less restrictive settings.…

Thirty fifth-grade students participated in a study designed to describe the social interactions of ability-grouped dyads as they construct knowledge of balance concepts to elucidate the relationship between interactions and conceptual growth. Results revealed that high achieving students effectively used prior experiences and maintained focus on…

Contends that African Americans waited with high expectations for equal educational opportunities, equitable utilization of resources, and positive results through advancement after Brown v Board of Education. However, research shows efforts to dismantle academic tracking and ability grouping have been unsuccessful, despite the negative impact of…

This article presents the results of a survey of elementary teachers (n=22) who used cluster grouping of gifted students within regular classrooms. Findings indicated general acceptance of clustering and that gifted students benefited from this provision. (DB)

Discusses the detrimental effects that low reading groups can have on children. Presents four alternatives to ability grouping that can help all children gain control of their learning and experience success in literacy. (MG)

The Inventory of Learning Processes assessed the learning styles of Caribbean ninth graders (47 boys, 67 girls) in 2 ability groups. The higher ability group performed better in deep processing, fact retention, and methodical study. Girls performed better in methodical study. (SK)