Differentiated Instruction Choice Boards Are often referred to as Tic-Tac-Toe Boards Extension Boards Thinking Boards Provide an entry point for DI in Core Instruction

Instruction can be differentiated for individual profiles, interests, and readiness by adjusting: Content – what students will learn and the materials that represent that learning Process – methods students use to make sense of the content Product – how students will demonstrate what they know, understand or are able to do Learning Environment – the culture and surroundings in which students learn best

Choice Boards List of activities selected by the teacher Often resemble a tic-tac-toe board Aligned to the learning goals Developed to meet specific needs of the learner Allows student to show evidence of learning Provide structured activities to : Gain confidence with the learning target/skill Practice the learning target/skill, Extend the learning Provide evidence of learning

Instructional Advantages Designed to meet the needs of individuals and small groups Teach, reinforce, practice or enhance learning Give students choice of learning tasks Give students choices to show what they know Enhance the learners ownership in their learning

Teachers Role Identify the purpose of the Choice Board Teach, practice, enhance, extend Determine suitable activities based on learner needs Create meaningful activities aligned to learning goals Visit and talk with student groups and/or individuals to become informed about progress Based the choices on topics or higher order thinking skills

Tips for designing Does the activity address a learning need? Is the activity directly aligned to a learning goal? Remove any activities that are “busy work” Activities are for students to learn, practice or extend the learning. Plan activities in 20-30 minute chunks. Are all materials readily available? Can the activity be completed with little or no adult help?

What do you notice in the design of this and the following choice boards?

Next Steps Explore some of the examples on the web page Select a student learning expectation List the scaffolded skills needed to master the SLE Create a choice Board for your class. FYI: Choice boards can made with pictures instead of words