Cluster Grouping

What is cluster grouping?

Cluster grouping is an intentional distribution of students so that an identified population of four to eight highly advanced students are assigned to an otherwise heterogeneous classroom within their grade to be instructed by a teacher that has had specialized training in differentiating for gifted learners.

Cluster Grouping IS...

  • A complement to any gifted program

  • A way to facilitate high level differentiation

  • A research-based model

Cluster Grouping IS NOT...

  • A gifted "program"

  • Individualized instruction

  • Acceleration

How will cluster grouping affect the identified students?

Students in grades 3-5 will be identified for the cluster group using multiple criteria. The identified students will be placed with a teacher in their grade level who has been specially trained to meet the needs of advanced learners through high level differentiation and an understanding of their unique social and emotional needs.

What about the very bright students who are not identified for the cluster group?

Research has shown that the above average students in other classrooms benefit from this grouping model as well. Without the highly gifted students to overshadow their efforts and achievements, the above average students emerge as leaders in the other classrooms. This improves their confidence, and helps them to achieve even greater success.

Don't we need to evenly distribute our most advanced students in all classes so they can help others learn?

When gifted students are placed in mixed-ability groups for cooperative learning, they frequently become tutors. Other students in these groups may rely on the gifted student to do most of the work, and may actually learn less than when the gifted students are not in their groups. Research indicates that the particular structure of cluster grouping raises everyone's achievement (Gentry, 1999).

BENEFITS OF CLUSTER GROUPING

    • Research shows increased achievement for ALL students

    • No additional cost to the district

    • Highly gifted students have each other --

      • No longer feel isolated, but gain a sense of belonging

      • Challenged and sometimes even humbled by peers

      • Together, they learn to better understand and accept their differences

    • Students are placed with teachers who have had specific training to meet their learning needs

    • Above average students in other classrooms gain confidence and have their chance to become leaders