Differentiation means offering multiple ways for students to access the same learning goal. It’s not about individualizing everything — it’s about flexible choices that meet diverse needs.
Three practical approaches
- Content: Offer texts at varied reading levels or multimedia alternatives.
- Process: Provide different entry points: guided notes, scaffolded tasks, or open-ended projects.
- Products: Let students show understanding through essays, videos, posters, or presentations.
Grouping strategies
Use flexible groups: homogeneous for targeted practice, heterogeneous for peer teaching. Rotate groups regularly so students experience both challenge and support.
Quick scaffolds teachers can use
- Sentence stems and question prompts.
- Worked examples for novices.
- Choice boards with tasks of varying complexity.
Assessment for differentiation
Use quick formative checks (exit tickets, mini-quizzes) to adapt instruction the next day. Keep the core standard consistent while varying pathways to reach it.
Takeaway
Differentiate smartly: preserve high expectations, provide multiple pathways, and use quick checks to inform your next move.