LABELLING IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS

Question 1

Rist (1970) Study of an American Kindergarten

Answer 1

a. He found that teachers used information about children’s home background and appearance to place them in separate groups, seating each group at a different table
b. Those who the teacher decided were fast learners were called the ‘tigers’. There children were seated at the table nearest to her and showed them the most encouragement
c. The other two groups, the ‘clowns’ and the ‘cardinals’ were seated further away. These groups were more likely to be working class. They were given lower-level books and little opportunities to show their abilities.