What is a common drawback of homogeneous grouping?

• A. It guarantees equal achievement.
• B. It always increases self-esteem for all.
• C. Students labeled as 'low' may feel ashamed or to feelings that do not enhance learning.
• D. It removes bias in assessment.

Answer: (C)

Grouping students by ability can improve targeted instruction, but a common drawback is the social-emotional impact on students in lower tracks. When learners are labeled as "low," they may feel ashamed or stigmatized, which can lower their motivation, reduce engagement, and hinder learning. That negative affect is not conducive to productive study or growth, making this the most likely barrier to achieving equitable outcomes. In contrast, the other ideas—guaranteeing equal achievement, universally boosting self-esteem, or removing bias in assessment—do not align with how labeling and tracking actually influence learning; in practice, these groupings often perpetuate unequal opportunities and can reinforce biases rather than eliminate them.