Principles of Differentiated Instruction

1. Student-Centered Approach: Focus is on individual needs. Recognizes and respects the unique learning needs, interests, readiness level and abilities of each student.
2. Flexible Grouping: Organizes students into various group configurations based on specific learning objectives, tasks, or student needs. Groups are fluid and change as needed. This encourages cooperation and peer learning, allowing students to benefit from diverse perspectives and support.
3. Multiple Approaches to Content, Process, and Product: Vary what students learn and the materials used. This can include different texts, media, and resources that match students’ reading levels and interests.
4. Ongoing Assessment and Adjustment: Identify students’ prior knowledge, skills, and readiness before instruction begins, continuously monitors student progress during instruction, providing timely feedback and adjusting teaching strategies as needed and then evaluates student learning at the end of an instructional period to measure mastery of content and skills.
5. Respectful Tasks: Ensure all tasks are meaningful, engaging, and appropriately challenging for each student without causing frustration.
6. Building a Supportive Learning Environment: Fosters a safe, inclusive, and supportive atmosphere where students feel valued and motivated to learn using clear guidelines, routines, and expectations to help manage a diverse and dynamic classroom effectively.
7. Integration of Technology: Utilizes technology to support differentiation, offering diverse and adaptive learning experiences. This includes educational software, online resources, and multimedia content.
8. Professional Collaboration and Development: Teachers are encouraged to work together, share best practices, and develop cohesive strategies for differentiation.