It is sometimes necessary for Kindergarten and Grade 1, Kindergarten to Grade 2 or other combinations of children to be taught by the same teacher. More time is required for preparing and organizing, but it is possible to offer an activity-centred program with suitable learning activities for all children. In a multi-grade classroom, cooperation is essential.
Older children become tutors of their younger peers.
This reinforces their knowledge, and skills and bolsters their self-confidence. Small, multi-aged cooperative groups, with each child having a role, are commonplace. The children soon become independent, responsible learners, thus allowing the teacher to circulate and meet with small groups and individuals. In collaboration, children can write, illustrate and read stories. They can record and graph observations, produce plays, and create poems and songs.