In class, we talked about de-streaming grade 9, aka not having academic and applied classes, but rather just one class with all students. Although I know there would be many difficulties that would need to be overcome, I do think it is a good idea. Now that I've realized not all grade 7/8 math classes are taught by specialized math teachers (since not all schools have rotary), I think grade 9 should be used to get all students on the same playing field. Once they are all level in what they have been taught, then they can decide if they want to take an academic or applied math class the following year. I feel like if I had to teach an English or history class in grade 7 or 8, I wouldn't be passionate or very good, and that would rub off on my students. Since many people seem to hate math or think they aren't good at it, their attitudes could definitely rub off on the students, hence making them think they should go into an applied class rather than an academic one. As well, students are still so young while in grade 9. So much can change during their transition into high school, and I believe their options should stay open while going through this. As well, the students may have been or may not have been good at math in middle school, compared to the kids in their small classes, but perhaps that will all change in high school when the population of students is much different. By giving all the students the same start, I believe it will be very beneficial for the rest of their high school career.
I do understand this could be very difficult for teachers as it would increase the range in students abilities. However, each class is already diverse and I believe the students would benefit from this as you could make your class a very peer taught environment. The students who are excelling would benefit from explaining the concepts to the students who aren't getting it, and the students who aren't quite getting it would benefit from having multiple people able to explain it, probably all in slightly different ways. As well, the students who would usually be in academic classes, would benefit from being forced to do more interactive or hands on learning which is usually emphasized more in applied classes. Whereas the students who do better with hands on activities, would benefit by gaining confidence that they can teach or help the more abstract students, therefore again benefiting all students.
What do you think? Is de-streaming grade 9 math (and possibly more subjects) a good idea or a bad idea? Do you think it would benefit or harm the students and why? I would love to hear your ideas as well!
That's all for today,
Miss Sydor
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