ABSTRACT
Cluster Grouping is a practice in which a group of students identified as gifted, high-achieving, or high-ability are placed together in an otherwise homogeneously grouped classroom. Cluster grouping of gifted students has been recommended within the field of gifted education since the Soviet Union launched Sputnik in 1957. Schoolwide Cluster Grouping (SCG) is another whole-school model for implementing cluster grouping that was based in part on the work of Gentry and thus has similar features. Researchers have found improved achievement among students in cluster grouping programs, specifically among gifted students clustered in classrooms where the model was implemented with fidelity. Total School Cluster Grouping (TSCG), when implemented with fidelity, results in clustered classrooms within and among grade levels, with all teachers and students benefitting from the program. Gentry and Keilty suggested structured and responsive professional development when implementing cluster grouping to help create buy-in and success as the program is implemented.
