1. Charting a New Course in the Classroom- Differentiated Instruction
By:
William Staros
March 1, 2010

2. Agenda and Objectives Differentiated Instruction Overview- 5 min.
A look into a DI classroom- 10 min.
Video Clip of DI in action-10 min
Questions and Comments-5 min.
What is Differentiated Instruction?
How will this help my child?
What will my child see in class? Why?

3. Differentiated Instruction Overview
Assessment is NOT testing
Students will have learning activities that are guided by their personal interests
Classrooms are flexible and safe, but controlled and focused
This will not be One Size Fits All instruction.
Teachers act as guides more than directors

4. What will this look like?
A DI classroom includes many of these items each day.
Assessment-driven by learning styles
Learning Profile-personal to each child
Tiered Activities-levels for those that need it
Curriculum Compacting-spending less time on some and more on others
Learning Contracts-student guided education
Independent Study-projects, inventions, continuous
Flexible Grouping-letting kids explore and meet new people
Anchor Activities-What they do when they are DONE EARLY
Learning Centers/Stations-Activities that reach each kid
Problem-Based Learning-Pick a problem, research and solve
Project-Based Learning-projects that determine understanding rather than testing

5. How will this help my child?
Personalized education
Driven by their needs and interests
LIFE LONG skills and understanding
Goals will not be grades but understanding
Students will have new and exciting activities involving music, movement, nature and other methods

6. What will my child see in class?
Students will be given interest surveys to determine learning styles
Students will be given choices
Students will be taught with guiding not demanding words
Students will monitor and evaluate their own work and feelings
The classroom will change often but procedures will stay in place
Students will feel safe and open to discuss their learning.

7. Take a look at DI in Action!
This clip shows how Differentiated Instruction works in a 1st grade classroom