What is Differentiated Instruction?

Differentiated instruction is an instructional theory that allows teachers to take into account the diverse needs of students when planning and delivering instruction. We all know students learn differently and have different interests in school. We as teachers need to respect their individuality by adjusting our lesson objectives and activities to meet their needs. When we do this, we increase on-task behaviors and decrease inappropriate behaviors like talking while we are, goofing around, not following directions, and getting up during a lesson. One important thing to remember is that our lesson plans should be derived from data on pre-assessments. Do activities such as the KWL chart to determine what the students already know and what they are interested in knowing by the end of the unit. For math, I like to give a short 5 or 6 question assessment on the content that will be covered in the next unit to see what most students already know. This way, I will not waste time on writing lesson plans just to find out that the students already had proficient background knowledge on the topic. Instead, I can focus the activities and lesson content on unknown skills or concepts. 

Another important thing to keep in mind while lesson planning and delivering instruction are your students' learning profiles. With these learning profiles, you can create activities specific to each students' preferred method of learning and demonstrating what they have learned. For example, if a student is a visual learner, providing a graphic organizer is a great aid for comprehension. To keep your students engaged, try a variety of different methods of delivery and self-reflect on which ones worked the best for your students. Students like to be challenged, but also supported, so make sure you provide your students with the necessary accommodations to ensure success. Below is a helpful chart on strategies for effective differentiated instruction. 

Check back at the beginning of each month to read the newest Differentiated Instruction Tip of the Month!

Strategies for Differentiating Instruction
Based on Content	Utilize pre-tests to assess where individual students need to begin study of a given topic or unit. Encourage thinking at various levels of Bloom's taxonomy. Use a variety of instructional delivery methods to address different learning styles. Break assignments into smaller, more manageable parts that include structured directions for each part. Choose broad instructional concepts and skills that lend themselves to understanding at various levels of complexity.
Based on Process	Provide access to a variety of materials which target different learning preferences and reading abilities. Develop activities that target auditory, visual, and kinesthetic learners. Establish stations for inquiry-based, independent learning activities. Create activities that vary in level of complexity and degree of abstract thinking required. Use flexible grouping to group and regroup students based on factors including content, ability, and assessment results.
Based on Product	Use a variety of assessment strategies, including performance-based and open-ended assessment. Balance teacher-assigned and student-selected projects. Offer students a choice of projects that reflect a variety of learning styles and interests. Make assessment an ongoing, interactive process.