As an elementary student in the early 80's, one of the main things I remember in elementary school (before 5th), was my desk was pushed against the wall, looking at the wall, by myself. I did get pull out for reading/ LA which I loved and was my favorite part of my day.
My mother remembers that in 1st grade I couldn't read, but memorized everything. After arguing with the teacher, I was "tutored" by a 3rd grade teacher. I was then reading quite proficiently.
I will say memorization has been my method of dealing with school, passing tests and having teacher think I was bright. I have never really applied myself or have been pushed to apply myself.
