"Differentiation"~~What does it really look like in the classroom?

As a parent, you are often bombarded with a new "buzz word" or educational jargon that has little or no meaning to you. In order for you to build a frame of reference for understanding, perhaps some background and practical information will provide you with insight as to how the concept really applies to your child's learning experiences at school. At some time during the school year, you may have heard your child's teacher, the CST, or even a school administrator mention differentiated instruction. Perhaps, you have a friend or a relative who is an educator. They, too, may have brought up this topic in a recent conversation.

So, what is "differentiation?"  "What does it look like in the classroom?"  First of all, I want to be certain to point out that differentiation is not simply giving kids "different" assignments or worksheets to complete. It is, however, working to tailor the instruction in such a fashion that it meets individual student needs. 

Teachers can differentiate in a variety of ways to include content, process, product, and learning environment.  So, how do each of these look in a real world classroom situation?  In the information provided below, you will find a more detailed explanation of each, along with some examples to help you visualize this concept:

CONTENT:  Content can be differentiated by using a variety of instructional materials based on the child's individual ability levels.  (Example:  guided reading groups, which are based on a child's level, will have different texts being used)

PROCESS:  Differentiation by process involves allowing students with different learning styles or needs to acquire knowledge in the way that best meets those needs. For example some students need one type of organizer to complete a given project while others needs a completely different type to complete the same project. Another example might be in math class: students need varying types and levels of manipulatives to complete their math problems; same problems, different process to get there sometimes.

PRODUCT:  Differentiation through product means that students will have the ability to meet learning objectives through a variety of different assignments.  Project choice allows the student to make decisions about how they will demonstrate mastery of the skill or concept.  Differentiation by product might also mean that some students prefer to work alone on projects, while others choose to work collaboratively with a small group. (Example:  While exploring a lesson in social studies, students are given choices about how to demonstrate learning and understanding. Some may create dioramas, while others may engage in learning center activities related to the content.)

ENVIRONMENT: Differentiation through the environment pertains to the look and feel of the classroom setting.  This can involve providing learning materials that reflect different cultures, developing routines in the classroom, and giving students the opportunity to work in collaborative areas, which are typically busy and filled with conversation, as well as independently in quiet areas that might be free from distraction.

Although there is no magic formula for packaging "Differentiation," there are some clear and evident hallmarks that will indicate the presence of differentiation in the classroom.  A few examples are flexible grouping, ongoing assessment of student learning through formal and informal assessments, and authentic learning activities that consider individual learning styles and ability levels.

With this information in mind, it is important to remember that every classroom is unique and every child that comes to that classroom has different needs, talents, and skill levels.  So ask yourself---Is it okay for my child in 3rd grade to be assigned homework, a project, or even an in class activity that isn't identical to my friend's 3rd grade child who is in the same classroom?  Absolutely!  One size does not fit all, nor should it. Our ultimate goal, as a school professional learning community, is to emphasize this as we think about the ways that differentiation can improve instruction and motivate students to do their very best!

For additional information and to read more on "Differentiation," I would recommend that you check out these online resources:

http://www.education.com/reference/article/Ref_Teacher_s_Guide

http://caroltomlinson.com/

http://school.familyeducation.com/teaching-methods/cognitive-development/38531.html

Ginger Psalmonds, CST