Olin, D. (2003, September 28).  The tracking system. The New York Times Magazine, 31(1), 31.  Retrieved October 19, 2006 from Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center.

• This article has very good points on both the pro and con sides.  There is some historical information and points out that ability tracking is “a gamble”!
• I will use this article to acknowledge both pro and con opinions and considerations, as well as some historical background.

Rachlin, J. (1989, July 3). The label that sticks. (criticism of academic tracking). U.S. News & World Report, 107(1), 51(2).  Retrieved October 19, 2006 from Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center.

• This article points out negative concerns of others and quotes from children. There is not much recognition of the positive effects of ability grouping, and there is not a significant amount of proof in the article of the negative effects of ability grouping the author holds as true.
• I will use this article to acknowledge negative viewpoints, but I will not say that some of  these claims are completely true, and without exceptions.

Tieso, C. (2003, Fall). Ability grouping is not just tracking anymore (on gifted students in school).  Roeper Review 26(1), 29(8). Retrieved October 19, 2006 from Infotrac.

• This article is about the types of ability grouping, the negative and positive viewpoints, and offers more than enough information.
• I can use this to introduce the types of ability grouping that some people are not aware of, and acknowledge both points of view (there are plenty of examples.)

Tieso, C. (2005, Fall).  The effects of grouping practices and curricular adjustments on achievement.  Journal for the Education of the Gifted. 29(1), 60-89, Retrieved October 19, 2006 from Education Index.

• This article provides accurate definitions of ability grouping, and has extremely detailed and complex research of ability grouping shown.
• I may not use this one as much as others but I will use the definitions that are well-worded.

Vann, A. (1999, January).  The Pros and Cons of Math Ability Grouping.  Principal, 78(3), 58-59.  Retrieved October 19, 2006 from Education Index.

• This article covers a principal’s opinion and proof, as to why ability groups work in math at his school. He provides background, disadvantages, advantages and why he sticks with the program.
• I will use this article to provide specific examples as to why ability grouping in math can in fact work.