Supporting Students in a Multi-level Class by Helping Them “Cheat”

In a multi-level class, a practice activity is often aimed at the middle of the students’ abilities. Lower-level students can benefit from some extra support to be successful.

A useful way to brainstorm ideas for supporting these students is to think of ways to help them “cheat,” or give them a head start. We wouldn't actually tell students that they are cheating, but it is a helpful starting point for coming up with ideas. Below are some examples:

• Write the first letter of some of the answers.
• Give them a question bank, idea bank or word bank to work with.
• Give them a sentence starter or sentence frame.
• Give them a glossary.
• Write in a few parts of an answer and leave blanks for students to fill in the rest.
• Let them work with partners.

Rather than give a whole class these supports, give them only to the students who really need them. As you plan your next practice activity, think of a low-prep way to help the struggling students "cheat" a little.