One-size-fits-all teaching approaches are becoming less and less effective. Students in your classroom are likely to have a wide range of background knowledge, experiences, interests, and abilities, making it difficult to meet each student’s learning needs. Successful teachers excel at differentiation, a technique that recognizes and responds to all students’ learning needs.
This instructional strategy uses varying teaching methods, content, and learning activities to accommodate each student.
Why use differentiation techniques this year?
- It allows teachers to address students’ differences by creating learning experiences that build on their current strengths.
- Tailored approaches are more likely to keep students engaged, motivated and on task. It ultimately helps students take ownership of their educational journey.
- Allowing students to take ownership of their learning fosters a growth mindset. It encourages students to understand that learning is a personal process and that they hold the power to change their outcomes.
How to Implement Differentiation in the Classroom?
- Learn their strengths, weaknesses, interests, and learning styles through assessments, observations, and conversations.
- Vary the content by providing students with different resources and materials (books, videos, games, activities, etc.) based on their readiness levels.
- Allow students to demonstrate their understanding in different ways. This can be done through activities like: projects, essays, presentations, pre-recorded videos or performances.
- Regularly monitor student progress and use that information to adjust your teaching strategies and ensure that each student is making progress!
This technique does come with challenges as it requires careful planning, the ability to be flexible, and a deep understanding of your students. This can definitely feel overwhelming, but with practice and support, differentiation can become a natural part of your teaching. If this is a technique you want to master this school year, the PDPlus™ on-demand course is your ticket to success. You will be given techniques, tools, resources, and support from a professional that has experience with differentiation. Create plans for your classroom and get insight from the course facilitator that will be your thought partner for this journey.
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