Arguments For/Against Selection by Ability

Question 1

Arguments For

Answer 1

Benefits ‘high flyers’, in mixed ability schools they are held back by slower learning pace
Critics argue that selection ‘stretches’ ‘high flyers’ as they are taught in streams/sets without slower learners

Question 2

Arguments Against- Late Developers Benefit by Non-Selection

Answer 2

Those whose intelligence or ability develop later can be catered to in non-selective systems, instead of being limited at 11
Possibility of success + qualifications remains open- moving between sets/streams easier than between schools

Question 3

Arguments Against- Fewer Social Divisions and More Social Cohesion Through Social Mixing

Answer 3

All children attend same type of school, so more social mixing between students from different social class + ethnic backgrounds, helps to overcome divisions
Selection by ability benefits m/c

Question 4

Arguments Against- Reduced Risk of Labelling and SFP

Answer 4

Children less likely to be labelled as failures at an early age, lowering self esteem
Avoids damaging effects of SFP

Question 5

Arguments Against- Benefits for Pupils of All Abilities

Answer 5

Most intelligent pupils have a stimulating effect on least able, problems created by SFP easier to avoid
Smyth et al- mixed ability teaching benefits ‘high flyers’, improves performance of less able + has no effect on overall examination performance