What does flexible grouping involve?

• A. Groups based on fixed ability levels for the year
• B. Groups are formed and dissolved based on task needs
• C. Students are assigned seats and rarely move
• D. There is no collaboration

Answer: (B)

Flexible grouping means organizing students into groups that can change as learning needs or tasks change. Rather than keeping students in the same groups all year, the teacher forms and dissolves groups based on what each activity requires, who is ready for a new challenge, or who would benefit from working together on a specific skill. This approach supports differentiation, lets students collaborate with different peers, and allows targeted instruction where it’s most needed. In contrast, grouping by fixed ability levels for the year keeps students in the same place, seating that never changes limits interaction, and a setup that doesn’t emphasize collaborative, task-driven learning.