Investigating ability grouping and group work in the primary school classroom

Ferrie, Paula

Abstract

This thesis focuses on ability grouping and group work within the primary school classroom, and within the context of literacy instruction. The aim of this thesis was to examine the relationship between children’s literacy ability group, reading skills and motivation to read (Study 1). As ability grouping requires children to engage in group work, a further aim was to examine children’s attitudes to group work and the child specific characteristics that influence children’s enjoyment, participation and perceived benefits of group work (Study 2). It was found that children’s literacy ability group was related to their expectations of success in reading, but unrelated to the extent to which they valued reading (Study 1). With regard to group work, children’s personality traits were associated with their reported participation in group work activities, whilst their academic ability was associated with their reported enjoyment and perceived benefits of group work (Study 2). Implications for ability setting and forming groups within the primary school classroom are discussed.

Citation

Ferrie, P. (2012). Investigating ability grouping and group work in the primary school classroom. (Thesis). University of Hull. Retrieved from https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4215964

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Aug 7, 2014
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 23, 2023
• Keywords: Psychology
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4215964
• Additional Information: Department of Psychology, The University of Hull
• Award Date: Jan 1, 2012