6. Grouping for Engaged Learning

• Heterogeneous. Heterogeneous groups include males and females and a mix of cultures, learning styles, abilities, socioeconomic status, and ages. This mixture brings a wealth of background knowledge and differing perspectives to authentic, challenging tasks.
• Flexible. Flexible groups are configured and reconfigured according to the purposes of instruction. This flexibility enables educators to make frequent use of heterogeneous groups and to form groups, usually for short periods of time, based on common interests or needs.
• Equitable. The use of both flexible and heterogeneous groups is one of the most equitable means of grouping. It ensures increased opportunities to learn for all students.