The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 1.Have a strong rationale for differentiating instruction based on student readiness, interest and learning profile Underlying assumption: Teacher knows each student

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 2.Begin differentiating at a pace that is comfortable for you. Underlying assumption: You will start!

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 3.Time differentiated activities to support student success Tasks should be shorter than the attention span of the students who work on the task Advanced learners may need more time Goal: Over time students will be able to sustain group and independent tasks longer

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 4.Use an anchor activity to free you up to focus your attention on your students. Productive use of students and teachers time Students must be taught to work quietly and independently Assumption: Teacher has planned anchor activities in advance

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 5.Create and deliver instructions carefully Prepare task cards or assignment sheets Give clear expectations for movement etc. Give directions to a few responsible students, who share them with others Specify a time limit for movement and activities Anticipate problems Assumption: Teacher and student preparation is required

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 6.Assign students into groups or seating areas smoothly Dont waste time calling names List names by color on an overhead, wall chart, peg-boards etc.

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 7.Have a home base for students. Beginning and ending a class with a set place for students helps with organization and materials In high school, it allows for taking attendance without a roll call.

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 8.Be sure students have a plan for getting help when youre busy with another student or group Ask 3 before you come to me Expert of the day Ask a peer Assumption: Its never OK to sit and do nothing while waiting for help.

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 9.Minimize noise Work on students working quietly with peers -Teach students to talk quietly or whisper -Practice how to move quietly around the room -Use a signal to lower the noise level, e.g. lights flickering Set up a section of the room for those easily distracted by noise or use head phones or ear plugs

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 10.Make a plan for students to turn in work Use an expert of the day to see if work is complete and of good quality before being turned in Be organized – have a place for work to be submitted, e.g. folder, bin etc.

Research shows that the average person spends 150 hours each year looking for misplaced items. Barbara Hemphill Time Management Expert

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 11.Teach students to rearrange the furniture Draw 3-4 floor plans and teach students to move furniture to match the plan Clarify expectations and purpose of the arrangement, how it will help their work

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 12.Minimize stray movement Designate a gopher for each work group Determine in advance the structure you want to encourage productivity

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 13.Promote on-task behavior Let students know you will be checking daily to see how they are using their time Note those working with extra concentration and put a + by their names Note those having a difficult time staying on task and put a – by their names (Track students over time. Share results + & -. Revise groups, seating arrangement or assignments as necessary.)

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 14.Have a plan for quick finishers If the same students consistently complete work with competence, tasks are insufficiently challenging If the students goal is to be finished first, encourage superior work vs. speed Develop anchor activities

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 15.Make a plan for calling a halt Provide advanced warning Provide alternative homework assignments, learning contract or an anchor activity for those who or advanced or behind when the group as a whole moves on

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 16.Give your students as much responsibility for their learning as possible. Foster independence by having students: Pass out materials Move furniture for group work Keep records of own work Chart progress toward established goals Critique one anothers work Help design some of their own tasks Having them make suggestions for smoother classroom operation.

The Basics for Managing a Differentiated Classroom 17.Engage students in talking about classroom procedures and group process Think aloud about your thinking Develop ownership of the classroom Have ongoing conversations about what is being experienced individually and collectively (Students can often spot problems and develop solutions before the teacher can)