Differentiation

Differentiation defined
> "Differentiation can be defined as a way of teaching in which teachers proactively modify curriculum, teaching methods, resources, learning activities, and student products. The needs of individual students and/or small groups of students are addressed to maximize the learning opportunity for each student in the classroom. — //Tomlinson, et al.// > > "Differentiation is changing the pace, level or kind of instruction you provide in response to individual learner needs, styles, or interest. — //Heacox//

//How to Differentiate://

 * //Step 1 - Know your students//
 * //Determine the ability level of your student//
 * //Survey student interests//
 * //Behavior Management - be sure students & teachers are aware of the classroom rules//
 * Step 2 - Have a Repertoire of teaching strategies
 * Direct instruction
 * Inquiry-based learning
 * Cooperative learning
 * Information Processing strategies
 * Step 3 - Identify a variety of instructional strategies
 * flexible lesson plans
 * student choice
 * NOT one-size fits all
 * Step 4 - Identify ways to assess and evaluate student progress
 * Authentic assessment
 * Rubric
 * Portfolios
 * Performance -based assessment
 * Knowledge mapping