A familiar challenge
Every classroom includes a wide range of abilities, and finding ways to support everyone can be tricky.
If you’re using active learning, you might be wondering how to keep it accessible for all pupils without making things more complicated.
Start with one activity, not many
One of the biggest advantages of active learning is that you don’t need lots of different tasks.
Instead, you can use one activity and adjust it slightly. This might mean changing the level of challenge, the type of support, or what you expect pupils to produce.
This keeps the class working together while still meeting different needs.
Build support into the lesson
Active lessons naturally create opportunities for support.
Pupils can work in pairs or small groups, talk through their thinking, and use prompts or resources to help them. This makes support feel like part of the lesson, rather than something separate.
Keep everyone involved
It’s important that all pupils feel part of the same learning experience.
Rather than separating groups, active learning allows everyone to take part in the same activity—just at different levels.
At the same time, you can stretch higher-attaining pupils by adding extra challenge or encouraging deeper thinking.
Don’t forget the practical side
Some pupils may feel more confident with movement than others.
Giving options for how pupils take part can help make activities more inclusive and comfortable for everyone.
A good place to start
If you’re looking for examples that already include this kind of flexibility, ready-made activities can be really helpful.
The Teach Active free learning pack includes lessons designed for mixed ability classes, making it easier to try active learning without additional planning.