Differentiation:Making it Work

Presented by Betsey Kennedy4th Grade Teacher, Big Shanty Intermediate School

elizabeth.kennedy@cobbk12.org

Differentiation Pre-Assessment

• Login to your remote using the number at the top of your packet.

• Answer the questions at your own pace. Remember to press “SEND” after you answer each question.

The Truth Is…• Differentiation makes a huge difference in

student success and enjoyment,but

• it can take a lot of planning time.

• classroom management can become problematic.

• standards call the shots on what to teach.

But Don’t Worry…

• There are things that teachers can do to differentiate in a meaningful way without eating up all your time or creating classroom management nightmares.

Differentiation comes in many forms.

• Differentiation of resource or text.

• Differentiation of task.

• Differentiation of dialogue.

• Differentiation of support.

• Differentiation of pace.

• Differentiation of content.

• Differentiation of independence or responsibility.

Descriptions of these are available at http://stivodifferentiation.wordpress.com/differentiation-tips/

Management is Manageable• Teach Teamwork

• Cooperative Learning Stop Signs

• Acceptable Noise Level Plan

• Student Contracts

Technology Tips

• Start simply.

• Try it yourself first.

• Limit student choices.

• Never enter the computer lab without a detailed plan.

Differentiation Tasks

• Examine the sample differentiation task provided for your grade level.

• Consider how this differentiation strategy and/or website could be used in other ways in your classroom.

• Be prepared to share your thoughts.

Sharing Time

• How could this differentiation strategy be used in other ways in your classroom?

• How could this website be used in other ways in your classroom?