Differentiated Instruction Whittney Smith, Ed.D. Adelphi University

“The first thing to know is that everyone likes to learn.” Daniel Willingham

What did you see? How did he learn? In what environments? With whom? COULD YOU FEEL THE EMOTION OF HIS EXPERIENCES?

5 Simply put… Differentiation is a teacher's reacting responsively to a learner's needs

Content Determine the Ability Levels of Your Students Align Tasks and Objectives to Learning Goals (Begin with the end in mind!) Survey Student Interests What are Your Students’ Learning Styles? What are Your Student’s Preferences and Motivators? Instruction is based on Essential Questions / Understandings Brain-Based Research Know Your Students!

Content Project-Based Learning Group learning/discussions Case study, Lab activity, Debate Student-created products… Peer / “World” review of work Choice Boards / “Menus"

Instructional Strategies Flexible Grouping is Consistently Used –Groupings are Not Fixed, and Should Be Dynamic in Process –Teach Whole Class Introductory Discussions, then Follow with Small Group (or) Pair Work. Direct Instruction Flipped Learning Inquiry-Based Learning Cooperative Learning Classroom Management Benefits Students and Teachers –Organization & Routines

Instructional Strategies Who? –Struggling Learners Modeling / Direct Instruction Needed Review with Visuals Needed Will Complete Graphic Organizers –On-Grade Learners Can complete on-grade assignments Less review needed Can create their own Graphic Organizers –Advanced Learners Can work independently and interpret information on their own Can work with ideas and expand concepts

11 Goals & Objectives Assessment Formative Summative Portfolio Video Varied; Tiered; Clear; With Passion and Student Choice Backward Design Wiggins, G.P., & McTighe, J. (2005). Understanding by design. ASCD

12 “Tiered instruction is like a wedding cake; all one flavor; same color icing but multi-layered.” - Carol Ann Tomlinson

© Tomlinson,2001

Products (Assessments) Initial & Ongoing Assessment of Student Readiness & Growth are Essential (Formative and Summative) Authentic Assessment Students are Active & Responsible Explorers High Expectations with Varied Requirements for Student Responses Consider each Student’s Multiple Intelligences & Learning Styles Based on Outcomes

Katie

How is the Classroom Environment is Organized? 21st Century Makeover

Classroom Flexible Grouping Options

Learning Cycle & Decision Factors Used in Planning and Implementing Differentiated Instruction

19 Be Inspiring