Differentiated Instruction

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Differentiated instruction uses a variety of teaching strategies to address the diverse interests, learning styles, and readiness skills of students. Teachers must be proactive instead of reactive to their students’ learning. Many factors play a role in creating the most positive and beneficial learning environment for students. In this book, the authors discuss the role of assessment and its importance in the differentiated classroom. In order for differentiation to be successful, a teacher must begin by creating a safe and supportive learning environment for students. Teachers must strive to get to know their students, not only based on skills and prior knowledge, but also their personal interests and learning styles. By connecting instruction to meaningful …show more content…

Assessments can be used to group students and to differentiate instruction based on strengths and weakness. Results from assessments drive the planning process for teaching curriculum. Teachers can differentiate based on content, helping students reach individual goals. They can differentiate based on process by providing alternate ways of presenting information. Student product can be varied by allowing students multiple ways to present what they know. Teachers can also differentiate by changing the environment in their classrooms. All forms of differentiation can be applied to account for differences in learning styles, interests, and prior knowledge. Another important aspect of assessment is grading. Grading is used as a means of determining student’s academic status and to communicate to parents and students how adequately goals are being met. Teachers who use differentiation approaches when creating assessments and evaluating assessment data attempt to ensure reliable information is obtained. Grades should be based on specific goals and should only be given on quality assessments. Effective instruction uses grades and data from both formal and informal assessments to

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