Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Prospero]

To all that can help thanks in advance:

I am presently teaching at a hagwon that teaches mostly Elementary students. The kids are wonderful and try their best in almost every class. There are however two or three classes where the kids are of three totally distinct levels. Some are at a level that is actually two grades higher...hence two years older...the lowest level in the class should be put back two grades (can't read or write just can speak a little) are others semm to fit the class and the curriculum just perfectly. My boss says I can make changes as I see fit...move them around ...etc. Do you think it is right to move younger kids into an older kids classroom or the opposite ...move older kids into a younger classroom. How can I fix this situation?

[agraham]

Personally I would probably split the difference. A kid that should really be dropped back two years: drop them back one year. A ten year old might be humiliated to be in a class of eight year olds, but could probably deal with a class of nine year olds. Especially when you consider that in Korea everybody gets a year older in the middle of the school year anyway.
Then, see if you can let them know subtlely that if they can catch up a bit over the course of this year, they won't have to be dropped back again next year. That might make 'em apply themselves a bit more.