MB>But, AT THE HIGH SCHOOL, I submit that there is certainly a
MB>correlation between success and class size (smaller size tending
MB>towards increased success). But that correlation is a loose one.
MB>I have just had so many joyful classes that were large, but had a
MB>great mix of students. In other words, what I like to call the "right
MB>chemistry."
I teach on the other end  KINDERGARTEN  and have been doing so for 7 
years now.  You are right that chemistry makes all the difference in the 
world.  I have two classes..we are at full days (kids come every other 
day and half-day on Monday).  In the class of 28 there was the chemistry 
you mentioned.  The kids played well together, followed the class 
routine with simple reminders, and were "nice" to each other.  I had 
occasional hitting (rare) and arguments (again not common with this 
group) and I looked forward to teaching this class.  
My other group of 23 were little terrorists.  They argued constantly, 
and ran around the room.  Several little boys were hitters and it wasn't 
uncommon to have a dozen or more hitting incidents daily.  I sent 
several boys home several time during the year.  Even the girls got into 
the act from time to time and I was worn out by lunch time.  
However, when just a few of my "boys" were absent for a day it made all 
the difference in the world.  If that class had been 18 students, it 
certainly would be more manageable.  Class size in this instance would 
have been important--no, make that critical.  But smaller class size for 
some districts is a financial impossibility.  So how do we as teachers 
deal with this "chemistry" problem when we are faced with it. I may face 
a similar situation next year and need to prepare for it.  Ideas?
 
MB>On the other hand, I have had smaller classes that just didn't jell.
MB>Perhaps things were just oo dull. It was the wrong mix. We didn't
MB>have the critical mass to really move forward.
MB>Anyway, that's just my perception.
MB>Based on the input from others, it would seem that there is a
MB>much more significant correlation at the elementary levels.
Take care and have a great summer...Dan Triplett
dtriplett@juno.com
* CMPQwk #1.42* UNREGISTERED EVALUATION COPY
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