Supporting Differentiation with Technology Vallorie Schlecht Educational Technology Tucson Unified School District

Today’s Topics What is differentiation? Why should I bother? What will it look like in my classroom? Hints! Give me Hints!!

Differentiation is doing “whatever it takes to ensure that struggling and advanced learners, students with varied cultural heritages, and children with different background experiences all grow as much as they possibly can each day, each week, and throughout the year.” Carol Ann Tomlinson

Creating a Case for Change What practices used in schools 100 years ago are still in use today? What research and initiatives support the need for change?

Essential Elements Laser-like focus Data-based decisions drive instruction No gingerbread kids Equal, respectful work Three Ring Circus

Assessment Daily Lessons State Curriculum Group Instruction Authentic Assessment MasteryNon-Mastery Differentiation ReteachingExtensions ExceedsMeetsApproachesFalls Far Below

Differentiation Content Reading materials Curriculum adjustment Reading buddies Process Tiered activities Manipulatives Personal agendas Product Choice Activities matched to learning styles/strengths Learning Environment Varied groups Varied activity levels Routines

Creative Content MarcoPolo Cox Education Network Education Online Ebsco Incredible Internet Information Searching for information Narrowing options

Prospective Processes WebquestsWebquests, Thinkquests, Module MakersThinkquestsModule Makers Asset – Streaming VideoStreaming Video Graphic Organizers Inspiration Eduplace Score

Possible Products Creating Choices Utilizing Primary Technology Products  PowerPoint Presentation (video or photos) PowerPoint Presentation  Newspaper Newspaper  Jeopardy Game Jeopardy Game  Tape of a Newscast  Excel Poster  Kidpix GraphGraph Using Rubrics

Inviting Environments Computers Video Equipment Audio Equipment Cooking Devices Digital Cameras Scanners Projectors Telephones

Curiosity It is a curiosity of teaching that no two days are alike, but, if we are not careful, all the days can take on a deadening sameness. We must remember that we have every opportunity to transform ourselves and our practice, just as we have every opportunity to stagnate, remaining much the same teachers we were when we began. Carol Ann Tomlinson

Questions Vallorie Schlecht Tucson Unified School District (520)

United Streaming has thousands of clips!

Lions live together for a long time in a pride, just like a family. Victoria Stewart This animal was found at This animal was found at