Teachers of the world - mixed ability classes for humanities. Why, why, why?

[maria1665]

Our (good) local comprehensive streams for maths and english, but does not steam for humanities until Y9.

DS is a bright lad, but is FAB at history - reads about it constantly at home, History channel - the whole bit. (No real surprise - his Dad runs museums.) But he hates history at school - saying it is dull and people mess around.

The subjects he likes best are those in which he is streamed.

What are the advantages of mixed ability classes? Are there any advantages for bright kids?

I think the theory is to use the bright children like fertiliser in mixed ability classes. Sprinkle a few of them about and they help everyone else to achieve more.
My personal theory is the losers are the bright kids who don't get challenged enough!.