Diversity can be more of an issue in same age classrooms. Children are instructed using a variety of strategies. Hands on activities are prevalent in developmentally appropriate classrooms. There is a balance between teacher directed and child directed activities. Open ended activities and materials are used so children of different ages can work cooperatively.
Flexibility is important in the multiage classroom.
Children are grouped depending on either the skills being taught or the interest of the child. The teacher needs to be flexible as to the content taught so that relevance is maintained for the children. Learning centers allow for flexibility in the classroom. Children can work independently on activities while the teacher is working with a small group of children or an individual child. Children in multiage classrooms are assessed by classroom observation.