Differentiated Instruction

            Differentiated Instruction is where the teacher adjusts the curriculum and instruction to maximize the learning of all students. DI is important because it allows for students with disabilities to be mainstreamed and placed in inclusion classrooms. Students are able to receive instruction based on their ability and interests.

As a teacher, my job will be to adjust curriculum and provide support for the students. Content, process, and products can all be differentiated by the teacher. It is important to target the student’s readiness and interests.  Teachers using DI usually use a variety of instructional approaches, alter assignments, and engage the students in meaningful lessons.

http://aim.cast.org/learn/historyarchive/backgroundpapers/differentiated_instruction_udl

Strategies using DI include: grouping students for instruction, employing effective classroom management procedures and teaching to the student’s zone of proximal development. Teaching to the student’s zone of proximal development means to teach right above the student’s level. The point of this is to have the student participate in productive struggle but not to the point where he or she gets frustrated and gives up. The goal is to push the student so that they are able to struggle while still succeeding in the end.

http://teacherweb.com/DC/options/MrWilliams/apt21.aspx