What is a potential emotional consequence of tracking students by ability?

• A. Increased admiration from peers.
• B. No impact on motivation.
• C. Students labeled as 'low' can feel ashamed or to feelings that do not enhance learning.
• D. Faster academic advancement for all.

Answer: (C)

Grouping students by ability can create social labels that affect how they view themselves. When students are placed in a low-ability track, they may internalize that label and feel ashamed, embarrassed, or inferior. Those emotions often undermine motivation and engagement, sending a message that their effort won’t improve things, which can actually hinder learning rather than help it. This is a classic example of how labeling can negatively impact students’ affect and drive. The other options don’t align with what research and classroom experience show: admiration from peers isn’t typical in this context, motivation is usually affected (not unchanged), and tracking does not inherently lead to faster advancement for everyone.