Group advising should consist of students of similar age or grade.

• A. Group advising should include students from widely different ages.
• B. Group advising should include only teachers.
• C. Group advising should consist of students of similar age or grade.
• D. Group advising should exclude peer input.

Answer: (C)

Grouping for group advising works best when participants share a similar developmental stage, such as age or grade, because they face comparable academic demands, social dynamics, and transitions. This alignment allows discussions to use common vocabulary and address issues that are relevant at roughly the same time, making content relatable and actionable. When peers are similar in age or grade, they can model appropriate behaviors, offer feedback that others can apply, and build trust around confidential topics, creating a more supportive and collaborative environment.

Including students from widely different ages can make discussions feel less relevant, as younger and older students may have different experiences and needs. It can also blur the group dynamics, making it harder for everyone to participate comfortably. A group that excludes peer input loses the valuable perspective and support that peers provide, which is a core benefit of group advising. A session that relies only on teachers misses the peer-to-peer benefits that make the format most effective.

For these reasons, it is best to group students by similar age or grade to foster meaningful, developmentally appropriate discussions and peer support.