Jeannie Oakes
Author's Argument: Oakes argues that tracking separates the "high-ability" students from the "less-able" students; therefore those students placed in a high ability group received better opportunities to learn.
Quotes:
1. "For example, in John Goodlad's national study of schools, reported in the book A Place Called School, students in high-ability English classes were more likely to be taught classic and modern literature, provided instruction in expository writing and library research, and expected to learn vocabulary that would eventually boost their score on college entrance exams."
This quote reminds me of Delpit. Delpit's says: "Some children come to school with more accoutrement's of the culture of power already in place - some with less." This is so true, in this case students who are placed in a high-ability classes is because they already belong to the "the culture of power."
2. "In low-ability classes, for example, teachers seem to be less encouraging and more punitive, placing more emphasis on discipline and behavior and less on academic learning."
I can see how this could be true. Sometimes students with learning disabilities are placed in regular classes and they don't receive the attention that they deserve; therefore teachers spend more time on discipline. Schools sometimes don't have enough teachers or the programs for those students with special needs. I don't think that teachers want to spend less time teaching their students. The problem is that sometimes they don't have a choice.
3."It's ironic that when other, less able students are offered similar advantages, they also seem to benefit."
I think that every students deserve a chance to prove their learning abilities. I also believe that everyone should receive a better education regardless of their class status.
Comments/Point to Share: This article reminds of Delpit and Kozol. I like this article because it was easy to read. I agree and disagree with some of Oakes's points. I think that the environment has an important role when it comes to children's education. Sometimes those students that are placed in low-ability groups don't have a nice classroom where they can feel comfortable and excited to learn.
3 comments:
I agree there aren't enough teachers and time in the day to accomadate all childrens needs its obviously not working if they give the less ability students less but if there aren't enough resources, teachers, and strategies for all students how can all students be considered high achieving or on the same level..
just some insight : )
Do you believe the use of "tracking" practices helps in the education of students? If you were a teacher, would you implement "tracking" practices in your classrooms? Does it depend on the students in the classroom?
I liked how you related this article to toher articles we have read. I never think of the other articles when I read so reading other people's ideas on it helps me make better connections. Thanks!
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