Differentiated Instruction-What is it? Why does it matter?

On Friday, our teachers attended a NWEA Measures of Academic Progress professional development training to learn about reading student test results and deciphering what the reports mean for informing instruction.

The data generated from the MAP tests in Reading, Math, and Language Arts will allow teachers to see exactly where a student's optimum learning opportunities are and adjust instruction accordingly. There is a plethora of information available, so it was important to learn where to find the resources needed to meet our students right where they are in their learning. 

Differentiated instruction is defined as "a process to approach teaching and learning for students of differing abilities in the same class. The intent is to maximize each student's growth and individual success by meeting each student where he or she is . . . rather than expecting students to modify themselves for the curriculum. (Hall, 2002)."

There are many ways to address differentiation in the classroom to include innovative classroom management, varied instructional approaches, student engagement strategies, grouping students according to specific skill sets, and teaching to the students Zone of Proximal Development. Remember the post about productive struggle? 

We are going to be looking at some really effective ways to implement differentiated instruction at Bethlehem and I am excited about the possibilities. 

Ou goal for each and every student = Success! Can't wait to see the results!!