What is Differentiated Instruction?

Comparing Classrooms adapted from: Tomlinson, Students and Learning Instruction Content and Assessment

Instruction: Time uses flexibly Learning Styles a priority Varied instructional arrangements Teacher facilitates learning Students’ readiness, interests, and L.S. shape instruction

Content and Assessment Multiple-option assignments Multiple texts used Application of essential skills/concepts Multiple perspectives Assessment ongoing and diagnostic Multiple forms of assessment

WHAT IS THE NATURE OF LEARNING?  Intelligence is variable  The brain strives for meaning  Optimal learning occurs with moderate challenge

Intelligence is variable Research shows intelligence is multifaceted and not fixed. Students need rich learning experiences to expand their intelligence.

Howard Gardner’s 8 Intelligences: Verbal-linguistic Logical-mathematical Visual-spatial Bodily-kinesthetic Musical-rhythmic Interpersonal Intrapersonal Naturalistic

The human brain seeks meaningful connections New technology has shown brain researchers can literally see brain activity. The brain learns best when meaningful patterns exist to chunk and organize information.

Student’s today are different More children come to school and stay in school than in previous years. Homes may or may not support the learner. Generation of technology savvy students makes their world “bigger” with available information, but “smaller” by isolation.

Tracking and Grouping has its Limitations Heterogeneous grouping may create too great a challenge for some students causing some students to a “shut down.” The homogeneous classroom may also contain students of varied abilities and learning styles.

Benefits of D.I. For the Learner D.I. can address the diverse interests, readiness, and motivational needs of learners. D.I. can provide opportunity for each learner to excel. D.I. can address tracking and grouping issues so all students move equally towards excellence.

How Can Teachers Differentiate Instruction?

Differentiate: –Content –Process –Product Based on Students’: –Interests –Readiness –Learning Styles/Multiple Intelligences

Getting To Know Students Obtain information about students’ interests, readiness, and learning styles in order to plan instruction.

STRATEGIES THAT SUPPORT DIFFERENTIATED INSTRUCTION: Anchor Activities Cooperative learning groups Curriculum compacting Tiered assignments Tic-tac-toe …To Name A Few…

Some Final Thoughts: Start small, but start Imagine the possibilities Establish clear guidelines/routines Stay organized Connect with support systems Reflect …and Revise