One of the best classes I ever had was English in junior high. We were testing a "new way" of learning/teaching by having different skill level workbooks. We all started at level 1 and continued on independently. If we passed, the moved up at our own pace. If we had questions, the teacher was there to help. As the levels got higher, the students were put into work groups. And from those higher work groups, they mentored the students in the lower groups. It was fantastic and no one failed...but they did learn at their own pace and we were still responsible for passing our mid term and final exams. I don't know why all curriculum classes can't be like that!