Differentiation Professional Development

Implementing Differentiation Teaching Methods

Differentiation is a teaching approach that involves adapting instruction to meet the diverse needs of individual students in the classroom using the six elements of DI. In practice differentiation focuses on meeting the needs of all learners, beginning through assessments of where their skills currently stand. The six elements of differentiated instruction include:

• Content
• Process
• Product
• Readiness
• Interests
• Learning Preferences

Here are several different differentiation methods that teachers can use:

• Tiered assignments – This involves creating different versions of an assignment or task that are aligned with the readiness levels of different students.
• Flexible grouping – This involves grouping students differently based on their learning needs and abilities. For example, students may work in small groups, pairs, or independently, depending on the task and their strengths.
• Personalized learning – This involves providing students with tailored learning experiences that are based on their interests, abilities, and learning styles.
• UDL (Universal Design for Learning) – This is a framework for designing learning environments that are accessible and engaging for all students, including those with diverse learning needs.
• Scaffolding – This involves breaking down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps and providing support and guidance along the way.
• Cooperative learning – This involves grouping students together to work on tasks, to promote teamwork and interdependence.
• Student choice – This involves giving students a degree of control over their learning by offering choices and options for assignments and activities.
• Differentiated assessment – This involves using a variety of assessment techniques and tools to assess students’ understanding and progress in ways that are appropriate for their individual learning needs.

These are just a few of the many different differentiation methods to meet the needs of all learners in their classrooms.

Differentiation for English Language Learners (ELLs)

Differentiation for English Language Learners (ELLs) is the process of adapting instructional strategies and materials to meet the diverse needs of students learning English as a second language.

DI is an effective approach for addressing the challenges that ELLs face in acquiring academic language and understanding content in their second language. By differentiating instruction, teachers can provide support and accommodations that help ELLs build their language skills and succeed academically.

Differentiation for ELLs can take many forms, including adapting the content, process, product, readiness, interests, and learning preferences of the students. 

• Use of visual aids (videos, images, graphic organizers) to support comprehension of content
• Modifying the pace and difficulty level of instruction
• Providing extra practice opportunities
• Offering opportunities for students to work with peers at similar language development levels

Effective differentiation for ELLs requires a thorough understanding of the student’s language development and academic needs. It also requires ongoing assessment and adaptation of instructional strategies to meet the evolving needs of ELLs as they progress in their language development. By taking a differentiated approach, teachers can provide ELLs with the support they need to succeed academically and build their English language proficiency.