Question 24 • Social Problems 1: A World in Crisis (IS)
Benito has always thought that he was pretty good at math. He worked through problems quickly and genuinely like learning new things, but then his teacher put him in the Yellow Group. His friend is in the Green Group, and they are using worksheets to learn concepts that are not in the textbook. Now Benito doubts his math skills. What does this example illustrate about tracking students?
Answer
A
It allows for all students to be treated equally in the classroom.
B
It is the most efficient way to teach a diverse group of students.
C
It only helps students who struggle with learning new concepts.
D
It can make students self-conscious and lower their expectations.
Explanation
Tracking places students into groups based on perceived ability or achievement. Benito’s placement in the Yellow Group, while his friend is in a group studying more advanced material, makes him doubt his math skills. This illustrates how tracking can make students self-conscious and lower their expectations, rather than simply matching instruction to their needs.
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