October 26th, 2015

Combined Classes group children from two or more consecutive grades into one classroom. Schools combine classes for a variety of reasons to meet learning needs and to balance class sizes. Combined classrooms are very common in schools today—they are neither better nor worse than single-grade classes. All classrooms, whether single-grade or combined, include students performing at a range of achievement levels. Teachers create a classroom environment that supports the needs of all students.   Several studies have found that students in combined grades do just as well academically as students in single grades, and some students actually do better in language and reading. Canadian studies show that students in combined classes have more opportunities for emotional and social growth. Every day, in both single-grade classes and combined grades, teachers work with large groups, small groups and individual students. Students in combined classrooms also benefit from a broader support structure (peer tutoring can help higher achieving and older students reinforce their knowledge and positive social behaviors). The Ministry of Education has many tools to help both teachers and parents. Visit www.edu.gov.on.ca for resources to help you support your child’s success in school. Most classrooms at Empire are combined. Our learning goals support all learners.