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What is Differentiated Instruction?

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Summary

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Differentiated instruction is a teaching method that helps every student understand the material, even if they learn differently. Teachers give students what they need to succeed, like a custom-made puzzle, so everyone can learn and have fun simultaneously.

Table of Contents

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Frequently Asked Question

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Why is differentiated instruction important?

Differentiated instruction is important because it recognizes that not all students learn the same way and provides them with customized support to help them reach their full potential.

What are some strategies for differentiating instruction?

Some strategies for differentiating instruction include offering multiple methods of demonstration, adjusting the level of support and challenge, and using technology to personalize learning.

How do teachers differentiate instruction in the classroom?

Teachers differentiate instruction by adjusting the pace, method, and content of their lessons based on the needs and abilities of their students.

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Scientific Definition

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Differentiated instruction is a teaching approach that helps students learn in the best way for them. Each student is different and has their own way of understanding and learning. Teachers use this approach to ensure they teach in a way that works for each student. They do this by giving students different assignments, activities, or learning methods based on their needs and interests. This helps students learn the same material in a way that’s right for them. It’s like a teacher giving different instructions to different people to help them put together a puzzle. The teacher might give one student more significant pieces to start with, and another student might get pieces with different colors. Both students are working on the same puzzle but doing it in a way that works best for them.

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Real World Example of Differentiated Instruction

Meet Susie, a curious and imaginative student who loves to learn but sometimes struggles with traditional teaching methods. Luckily, Susie’s teacher embraces differentiated instruction to ensure every student’s success. Here’s how it unfolds:

  • Reading: Susie enjoys reading books at her own pace, so her teacher provides a variety of texts with different difficulty levels, allowing her to choose what she feels comfortable with.
  • Hands-on activities: Susie learns best through hands-on experiences. Her teacher incorporates interactive science experiments and art projects into the lessons, engaging Susie’s creativity and encouraging active learning.
  • Visual aids: Susie benefits from visual cues to grasp concepts. Her teacher uses colorful charts, diagrams, and visual organizers, making it easier for Susie to understand and remember information.
  • Collaborative projects: Susie thrives in group work. Her teacher assigns collaborative projects where each student contributes their unique strengths, promoting teamwork and leveraging diverse abilities.
  • Flexible assessments: Susie demonstrates her knowledge in different ways, such as creating a video presentation or writing a story instead of taking a traditional test.

Susie’s experience with differentiated instruction empowers her to embrace her individuality, love learning, and achieve her full potential.

How Does Differentiated Instruction Work?

Differentiated instruction is an approach that ensures effective learning by customizing instruction to meet the diverse needs of students. Here are some examples to help you understand how it works:

  • Flexible grouping: Students are organized into small groups based on their learning styles or abilities, allowing for tailored instruction and collaboration.
  • Varied learning materials: Different resources, such as texts, videos, or interactive tools, are provided to accommodate different learning preferences and abilities.
  • Adjusted pacing: Teachers modify the pace of instruction to ensure all students grasp the content without feeling rushed or left behind.
  • Multiple assessment methods: Students demonstrate understanding through various assessment formats, such as projects, presentations, or written assignments.
  • Individualized support: Additional resources, accommodations, or modifications are provided to address specific learning needs or challenges.

Differentiated instruction empowers educators to meet the unique needs of each student, fostering an inclusive and engaging learning environment. Goally aids differentiated instruction with apps for life and language skills, including digital schedules, AAC, gamified learning, and more.

 

This post was originally published on Feb. 7, 2023. It was updated on July 19, 2023.

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