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Most classes are mixed in some way. For example, some students may have spent more time learning English than others. Some may be more motivated. Some may have more support from their parents. They may be of mixed background, and of different age and gender.

Mixed classes can cause some difficulties. For example, how do you as the teacher ensure all students are learning? How can you keep everyone’s attention? How can you choose materials that are suitable for all students?

There are many ways that you as a teacher can deal with a mixed-level class. You can make sure to ask easier questions to those with less English, and harder questions to those with more. You can be more tolerant of mistakes made by children with less English. It’s also useful to have extra activities ready for children who work quickly.

There are also many teaching strategies you can use to manage mixed-level classes. You can use open-ended activities. These work well because children of all levels can do them. Be sure to use pair and group work. You can sometimes group children according to their level, and sometimes pair weaker and stronger students together. You can set flexible targets as well. For example, ask some groups to write five sentences and some to write only three.

All classes are mixed in some way. As a teacher, you should first figure out what the differences between your students are, and then try different methods to ensure that all of the children have a chance to learn.