IELTS Reading #82: The case for mixed-ability classes

Questions 1–4: Multiple Choice

Choose the correct letter A, B, C or D.

1. The writer describes the Romeo and Juliet lesson in order to demonstrate

A) how few students are interested in literature. B) how a teacher handles a range of learning needs. C) how unsuitable Shakespeare is for most teenagers. D) how weaker students can disrupt their classmates’ learning.

2. What does the writer say about streaming in the third paragraph?

A) It has a very broad appeal. B) It favours cleverer students. C) It is relatively simple to implement. D) It works better in some schools than others.

3. What idea is suggested by the reference to Mount Qomolangma in the fifth paragraph?

A) students following unsuitable paths B) students attempting interesting tasks C) students not achieving their full potential D) students not being aware of their limitations

4. What does the word ‘scaffolding’ in the sixth paragraph refer to?

A) the factors which prevent a student from learning effectively B) the environment where most of a student’s learning takes place C) the assistance given to a student in their initial stages of learning D) the setting of appropriate learning targets for a student’s aptitude

Questions 5–9: Summary Completion

Complete the summary below.
Drag words from the box into the blanks.
Write your answers in boxes 5–9.

Word Box:

wrong classes lower expectations average learners bottom sets brightest pupils disadvantaged backgrounds weaker students higher achievements positive impressions

According to Professor John Hattie of the Melbourne Education Research Institute there is very little indication that streaming leads to (5) . He points out that, in schools which use streaming, the most significant impact is on those students placed in the (6) , especially where a large proportion of them have (7). Meanwhile, for the (8) , there appears to be only minimal advantage. A further issue is that teachers tend to have (9) of students in streamed groups.

Questions 10–14: Yes/No/Not Given

Do the following statements agree with the views of the writer?
Write YES if the statement agrees with the views of the writer
Write NO if the statement contradicts the views of the writer
Write NOT GIVEN if it is impossible to say what the writer thinks about this

10. The Vygotsky model of education supports the concept of a mixed-ability class.

YES NO NOT GIVEN

11. Some teachers are uncertain about allowing students to take on MKO roles in the classroom.

YES NO NOT GIVEN

12. It can be rewarding to teach knowledge which you have only recently acquired.

YES NO NOT GIVEN

13. The priority should be to ensure that the highest-achieving students attain their goals.

YES NO NOT GIVEN

14. Taking part in collaborative outdoor activities with teachers and classmates can improve student outcomes in the classroom.

YES NO NOT GIVEN

IELTS Reading Practice Test: The case for mixed-ability classes

Reading Passage Content Summary

Question Types Included

Test Information

Reading Passage Content

Questions 1–4: Multiple Choice

Questions 5–9: Summary Completion

Word Box:

Questions 10–14: Yes/No/Not Given

Reading Passage Content

Questions 1–4: Multiple Choice

Questions 5–9: Summary Completion

Word Box:

Questions 10–14: Yes/No/Not Given