Multiage grouping - the placement of children in the same classroom who are at least one year apart in age - is designed to allow children of various ability and age levels to work in an environment designed to optimize their learning potential. The authors explore the workings of a multiage classroom and offer guidelines for planning this type of instruction.

This concise guidebook brings together all the basics you need to know about the multiage classroom. Daniel and Terry discuss the importance of developmentally appropriate practice and examine the roles and responsibilities of teachers with regard to curriculum planning, instructional delivery systems, classroom organization, classroom management, student self-directed learning, and peer tutoring. The authors explain how the role of principal is critical to the success of your multiage classrooms. You′ll also learn how to arrange the physical environment of your classrooms to provide the most effective environment for learning. In a section of real-life interviews, teachers, principals, parents, and community members share their perceptions and concerns about multiage classrooms.