When a teacher tries to teach something to the entire class at the same time, "chances are, one-third of the kids already know it; one-third will get it; and the remaining third won't.  So two-thirds of the chidren are wasting their time."  --Scott Willis, ASCD

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What is Differentiated Instruction?

Adjusting the curriculum, teaching strategies, and classroom environment to better meet the needs of all students.  In a differentiated classroom:

• Student differences shape the curriculum
• Pre-assessment is typical and frequent
• Multiple options for students are offered
• There is variable pacing
• Varied grading criteria are used
• Individual efforts and growth is honored

from How to Differentiate Mixed-Ability Classrooms by Carol-Ann Tomlinson

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How do I differentiate?

Differentiate According to Student Readiness:  Readiness refers to a student's skill level and background knowledge.  When tasks are too difficult for students, they become frustrated and do not learn effectively.  When tasks are too easy for students, they become bored and do not learn--in spite of the fact that they are earning high grades.

Differentiate According to Student Interest:  Interest refers a student's attitude and engagement with a topic or unit of study.  

Differentiate According to Student Learning Profiles:  Learning Profile refers to the ways in which students will best process what they need to learn.  Components of a student's Learning Profile include his/her multiple intelligences, learning styles, and learning environments.

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What do I differentiate?

Differentiate Content:  Multiple options for taking in information

Differentiate Process:  Multiple options for making sense of information

Differentiate Products:  Multiple options for demonstrating understanding

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How can I learn more?

Free Online Differentiated Instruction Course

Strategies that Differentiate Instruction from the South dakota Education Service Agencies

Invitations to Learn and Differentiate Curriculum by Carol-Ann Tomlinson

PowerPoint