Parallelklassen

Parallelklassen are two or more classes within the same school year that follow the same curriculum in parallel. Each parallel class typically has its own classroom, timetable, and teaching team, but the grade is treated as a single cohort for overall planning. The formation of parallel classes usually occurs when student numbers are too large for a single class or when schools want to organize differentiated or more manageable instruction.

In practice, parallel classes share certain resources and activities. Core subjects are taught in parallel across the classes, while teachers may rotate between them for specialized modules or support. Some activities, such as assemblies, science labs, physical education, or projects requiring broader participation, may be conducted collectively for all parallel classes of the grade. The arrangement requires careful scheduling and sufficient staff and facilities to ensure parity across the parallel classes.

The rationale for parallel classes includes reducing average class size, enabling more individualized attention, and facilitating targeted grouping based on language needs, academic level, or special education support. They can also improve resource management and flexibility in scheduling. Challenges can include higher staffing and facility demands, more complex timetabling, and the risk of perceived or real differences in opportunities between parallel classes if resources are unevenly distributed.

Usage varies by country and region, but parallel classes are common in many German-speaking education systems, including Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, particularly in primary and lower secondary grades. Policies and exact practices differ among states and individual schools.