Celebrate the different experiences brought to the table by all class members. Instead of conveying the notion that class members of different ages is a burden, express interest in the differences in these individuals' experiences. If some examples of these differences come up in class discussion, make it clear that you value these differences, as your attitude can play a large part in determining the attitude of your class members.
Catalog slang from multiple generations, drawing parallels between commonly used words. Take a day to talk about slang. Ask each member of the class to write down five slang words, each on a separate self-adhesive note. Allow the class members to come to the front of the room one at a time and place their self-adhesive notes on the chalkboard, sharing their slang with others, and telling classmates who may be unfamiliar with the terms what they mean. Keep these papers posted on a classroom wall to keep the activity fresh in the minds of your class members.
Create parallels between past and present events. When exploring events that occur in society or in literature in your class, connect these events to as many prior events as possible, ensuring that all members of the class, regardless of age, can understand the connections. For example, if a national disaster occurs, discuss ways in which it may be similar to both 9/11 and the Kennedy assassination to create a unifying experience for your class members.
Read literature that depicts different eras. Select books that show life in the '60s, '70s, '80s, '90s and current times. Discuss how life during these eras differed from present times, as well as how it was the same. Encourage those who lived through the events discussed in each book to share their personal experience.
Offer training opportunities for those who lack technological competence. For some, the generation gap most comes into play when technology enters the classroom. If some of your class members have less technological experience, offer them tutoring in technology to ensure that this inexperience doesn't present problems for them.