1. Differentiation in practice

2. Summary of Book
Focuses on flexible groupings, pacing, and tiered assignments
The importance of incorporating student interest and readiness levels.
Using pre and post assessments to drive instruction
Clear cut objectives so students know what they are learning
Subjects covered include: social studies, language arts, science, math and foreign language
Examples of differentiated worksheets and assignments
Learning tools to meet the needs of different abilities in the classroom.

3. Differentiated Activities
Differentiated activities are varied by level and learning style to meet student interest, learning styles, allow them to work in various groupings, allow for student choice and meet their individual readiness levels.
To differentiate in writing you can consider a students readiness level. For example, adjust the output expectation from 3 reasons to 5 reasons to support their thinking.

4. Differentiated Activities

5. Student interest / readiness levels
“Key student interests are absent from the mandated assessment” “Art is not on the test, nor is the astronomy that fascinates some students.”
Ways to begin differentiation based on student interest include using a student interest survey to gain an understanding of their current interests,
Allow for student choice for example with what they read, what assignment they complete, which writing topic they choose, or which homework assignment they complete
Use knowledge scales to quickly determine students understanding of a topic and group them.

6. readiness levels – Knowledge rating scales

7. Tools for differentiation
Different styles of peer grouping (mixed readiness groups etc.)
Records of their goals and progress
Graphic organizers
K or TWL
RAFT
Jigsaw
Think pair share
Rubrics
I spy – game leader describes an object based on vocabulary terms. For example in geometry to describe the lines and what makes up a shape. Students could use different adjectives or similes/metaphors to describe an object in ELA.

8. Tools for differentiation – Learning Contracts

9. Reflection on the process
This process was differentiated because we had a choice of which topic we studied
Working with peers was helpful because we got to hear the ideas and opinions of people we may not always work with.
There were tools we could apply in the classroom that were beneficial to student learning

10. Implications for the district/student learning
Helps build student confidence and motivation
Decreases frustration and behavioral problems
Age-readiness appropriate
Sets clear and high expectations for student learning
Tools can be modified to accommodate students at all grade levels

11. Next Steps Continue using flexible groups and small group instruction
Use more pre-assessments such as the Go Math show what you know
Start the year and different units with interest surveys
Offer more choice with activities and homework
Observe differentiated lessons and units in classrooms
Plan time to collaborate with other teachers, analyze assessments and reflect on differentiated activities