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Jeopardy Labs - Create Your Own Jeopardy Game

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Jeopardy Labs - Create Your Own Jeopardy Game

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https://jeopardylabs.com/

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Create your own jeopardy template online, without PowerPoint. Or browse the pre-made templates created by other people!

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https://www.duolingo.com/

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Duolingo is the world's most popular way to learn a language. It's 100% free, fun and science-based. Practice online on duolingo.com or on the apps!

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https://kahoot.com/welcomeback/

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Kahoot! | Learning games | Make learning awesome!

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Kahoot! is a game-based learning platform that brings engagement and fun to 1+ billion players every year at school, at work, and at home.

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https://quizlet.com/

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Using Technology to Differentiate Instruction

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Using Technology to Differentiate Instruction

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http://pdo.ascd.org/lmscourses/PD11OC109/media/Tech_M4_Reading_Using_Technology01.pdf

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Using Technology to Differentiate Instruction

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Using Technology to Differentiate Instruction

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http://teaching.monster.com/benefits/articles/8484-using-technology-to-differentiate-instruction

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Resources >> Browse Articles >> Utilizing Technology

Mrs. Kelly Tenkely

One of the major benefits of using technology in the classroom is the ability to differentiate instruction to meet the needs of every student in every lesson. Just as every student grows and develops at different rates, they learn in different ways and at different speeds. Technology makes it possible to pace lessons appropriately for each student's learning level and can be used to promote learning in the multiple intelligences.

Below you will find website suggestions that address the different learning styles in your classroom with the help of technology:

Verbal-Linguistic

These learners enjoy learning through speaking, writing, reading, and listening. In the classroom setting these students shine when given tasks such as taking notes, researching, listening, reading for information, and writing.

Websites to encourage learning for Verbal-Linguistic students:

1. http://wordle.net Allow students to express themselves creatively with words

2. http://ed.voicethread.com Capture student voices with audio, text, pictures, and video

3. http://zoho.com- A free online word processor, and presentation tool

4. http://gcast.com- Students can podcast (voice recording) online.

5. http://kerpoof.com - Students can create stories or mini-movies

6. http://www2.shidonni.com- Students create animated stories

7. http://tickatok.com Students can create stories and turn them into a book

8. http://pbskids.org/wordworld A world where words come alive

9. http://readwritethink.org 52 interactive activities related to reading, writing, and speaking

10. http://speakaboos.com Students can read stories online, record their own story and play literacy games

Logical-Mathematical

These learners love numbers, reasoning, and problem solving. These students enjoy measuring, calculating, and organizing data. In the classroom students will shine when given tasks such as collecting data, conducting experiments, solving problems, predicting, classifying, and sequencing.

Websites to encourage learning for Logical-Mathematical students:

1. http://zoho.com- Spreadsheet and data collection tools

2. http://ed.voicethread.com Capture a sequence of events in an experiment or during problem solving

3. http://emeraldisland.com A virtual world where students can experiment and problem solve

4. http://sciencecomics.uwe.ac.uk/index.php Comics about science experiments, and problem solving games

5. http://toytheater.com/index.php Math, reading, music and art puzzles

6. http://sciencemuseum.org.uk/launchpad/launchball- Logic puzzle games

7. http://mathplayground.com Students practice math skills and engage in logic games

8. http://mathtv.org Students watch a series of video word problems for math, watch a step-by-step video solution and work on follow up problems

9. http://iknowthat.com- Games that make students think: science, language arts, math, and thinking games

10. http://enlightenme.com/enlightenme/superthinkers A site the encourages critical thinking and problem solving

11. http://knowitall.org/hobbyshop A hobby shop full of logical-mathematical activities

12. http://mrsp.com- A storybook site that celebrates reading and books
Continue reading more learner profiles on the next page.

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using technology differentiate instruction utilizing technology benefits articles

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Using Technology to Differentiate Instruction

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One of the major benefits of using technology in the classroom is the ability to differentiate instruction to meet the needs of every student in every lesson. Just as every student grows and develops at different rates, they learn in different ways and at different speeds.

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9 Tips for Using Technology to Differentiate Instruction

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9 Tips for Using Technology to Differentiate Instruction

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https://www.aeseducation.com/blog/9-tips-using-technology-differentiate-instruction

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9 Tips for Using Technology to Differentiate Instruction

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Using technology to differentiate instruction can be overwhelming for many teachers. Read these 9 tips to see how you can easily meet the needs of your students

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10 Ways to Differentiate Instruction with Technology

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10 Ways to Differentiate Instruction with Technology

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http://blog.whooosreading.org/10-ways-to-differentiate-instruction-with-technology/

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By Heidi Raki

Differentiation and technology integration are two hot topics in education right now. They're also two of my specialties, so I'd love to share 10 ways I like to differentiate instruction using technology.

These strategies and technology resources are purposely not specific to grade level or subject, in an effort to be valuable to teachers of all grade levels. And because everybody's technology situation is different, I have provided you with additional differentiated instructions in case you have just one computer in your classroom.

These suggestions will also be appropriate to classrooms with two or three computers, any number that allows for small groups to share a computer. Some of these ideas also have suggestions for how to make tech-based differentiation work better with a one to one classroom set up.

1. Give middle-of-the-pack learners freedom

When working in leveled groups, give your low or middle group teaching websites like Moby Max, Khan Academy, IXL or Starfall. These types of websites give the group you are not with an additional "teacher." I work with my lowest group myself and let my middle group use a teaching website while the higher groups work together independently.

One Computer Classroom Suggestion: If your classroom only has one computer, be sure that the computer is placed strategically away from your teaching group. This will allow students to watch videos or do assignments without headphones.

Additionally, for websites like Moby Max or IXL, set up an additional account that is the "Yellow (Middle) Group's Account" so that students can work on practice problems as a group without messing up any individual student's account.

2. Turn students into teachers with presentation tools

When working in leveled groups, allow higher-level students to use presentation websites like Prezi, Powtoon and EduGlogs to create projects or videos to "teach" the other students while you personally work with lower-level students.

At the end of the lesson, review the projects or videos as a whole group to see if the highest group can add anything new to what you have reviewed with the low and/or middle groups.

Have class rules and procedures for working on a group project. This reduces the amount of bickering once students are working on a computer, and prevents one student from doing all of the work.

One to One Classroom Suggestion: Have planning sheets available for students so they can plan before they get onto the computer. Encourage students to have another student review their plan before starting the presentation.
More: 8 New Presentation Tools For Teachers (And Students!)
3. Encourage collaboration with Google Docs and Prezi

When using semi-permanent groupings like literature groups, use websites that allow multiple students to work in the same document simultaneously like Google Documents and Prezi so that they can create a collection of work collaboratively over a longer period of time.

One Computer Classroom Suggestion: Determine whose account students will use to work on their collective document ahead of time. You may also decide to have one classroom account that all students work on.

4. Use learning games to engage students outside of small groups

Use "computer learning games" to keep students engaged when you are pulling small ad-hoc groups to review specific skills, especially right before or right after a test. An easy way to do this is to use a Google Document or Edmodo post with links to the specific games that would help with a particular skill.

One Computer Classroom Suggestion: Group students based on their needs so that all the students working on the computer need to work on the same skill.

One to One Classroom Suggestion: Keep an ongoing document that links skills to online games or videos. This way, students can review skills previously covered at any time, and move onto new ones. This is a valuable document for every student, allowing everyone to hone their skills without their peers being able to single them out.

5. Record peer tutoring sessions to review later

Have students record their conversations during peer tutoring using screen recording software or note-taking apps with built-in audio software like Evernote. This allows you to check in and see if there's anything information that was incorrect or needs following-up.

One Computer Classroom Suggestion: Substitute other technology, including simple digital voice recorders, cell phone cameras/audio apps, or even cassette recorders to do the same thing in a cheaper, more portable way.
More: 5 iPad Projects to Assess Student Learning
6. Use student-made video tutorials

Instead of using traditional peer tutoring, have students create a video or tutorial for other students using websites like PowToon and Screencast-o-matic. Pair older students with younger or lower-level classes, allowing everyone to be an "expert" and teach someone else what they know. After videos are complete, allow students to use the videos to review skills at their own pace.

One Computer Classroom Suggestion: Let students create their videos in groups. You may also want to try non-computer approaches to creating videos, like using a cell phone, video camera or tablet.

There are many apps that allow you to create movies including Explain Everything, Screen Chomp and Educreations.

If you are in a one-tablet classroom rather than a one computer classroom, consider paying for apps like Explain Everything where students can save files and retrieve them later instead of having to stay in their video until it is complete.

7. Provide students with differentiated project options

Giving students a choice with in their projects is a great way to differentiate the project. You can have students choose their topic or subtopic, or give them a choice for how the information is presented.

Students can create videos with programs like PowToon or iMovie; presentations with programs like Prezi and Google Slides; virtual field trips with picture slide show software like Kizoa or online storybooks with Storybird. Technology gives us so many possibilities for projects.

One Computer Classroom Suggestion: Technology projects in a one-computer classroom often need to be group projects where each group rotates through the use of the computer. In this case, be sure to have an alternative activity available for those students who are not having access to a computer at that moment.

Also, give groups the option of both technology projects and non-technology projects like dioramas or song writing. These choices will reduce the number of students who need technology.

One to One Classroom Suggestion: Technology projects are awesome in a one to one classroom, but don't forget to give students non-technology or partial technology projects. An example of a partial technology project might be for them to write a song about the topic and practice singing it, but then record the song in audio recording software like Audacity.

8. Make assignment resources available all year long

Student-paced learning is the ultimate differentiation. If you have a class where many students move on at their own pace, you might consider having videos and assignments available for your entire semester or even your entire course so that students can work at their own pace.

You can have these resources available to students through a series of Google Documents or Edmodo posts. Students can have links to videos or websites to explore, as well as a list of possible assignments and quizzes given through Edmodo quizzes or QuizStar.

Students work at their own pace through the assignments and lessons, with projects embedded throughout. This style of student-paced learning is especially helpful if you need students to have a similar stopping point.

One Computer Classroom Suggestion: Prioritize the computer for the few kids who are really far ahead, or really far below. Allow these students to work self-paced while you take the rest of the class through a typical day.
4 Content Curation Websites for Lesson Resources
9. Encourage passion-based learning

Let students follow their passions through Be the Teacher Projects, Student-Led Inquires, Passion Projects, Genius Hour or 20% Time to get them more engaged in their learning. This is also a way for you to differentiate by bringing in each students' individual interests and level.

Thanks to YouTube and other online video programs, students can teach themselves almost anything they want to know, as long as we teach them how to do the research appropriately. Allow students to use videos, websites and other resources, both on and off the Internet, to research a topic of their own choice, at their own pace.

Students can present the topics to their classmates, and the world, by creating a project. This project can be technology-based, using presentation or video creation software, or it could be a traditional of presentation with a poster or other props.

One Computer Classroom Suggestion: Group students based on interest and allow them to work together on the project. You may also want to prioritize your computer by asking students to either use it for research only or project creation only. Either of these will reduce the amount of time student spend trying to use it.

10. Encourage sharing of ideas

When using collaborative learning groups like jigsaw, inside outside circle, or think pair share, allow students to share their thinking using a message board like Edmodo or virtual bulletin boards like Padlet. This allows their ideas and resources to be reviewed and used by the class as a whole, while building a class document of learning that can be referred to during review or projects.

One Computer Classroom Suggestion: Have students do their brainstorming orally or written on small Post-Its. Then add the information to the virtual bulletin board afterwards as a group.

One to One Classroom Suggestion: You may still want students to do the movement of inside outside circle in order to activate thinking through movement and interaction. Afterwards, set a timer for 5 minutes and ask students to record as much as they can remember on the message board.

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10 Ways to Differentiate Instruction with Technology

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By Heidi Raki Differentiation and technology integration are two hot topics in education right now. They're also two of my specialties, so I'd love to share 10 ways I like to differentiate instruction using technology.

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https://www.edutopia.org/article/differentiated-instruction-resources

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20 Differentiated Instruction Strategies and Examples [+ Downloadable List]

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20 Differentiated Instruction Strategies and Examples [+ Downloadable List]

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https://www.prodigygame.com/blog/differentiated-instruction-strategies-examples-download/

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Make math learning fun and effective with Prodigy Math Game. Free for students, parents and educators. Sign up today!

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https://www.gadoe.org/Curriculum-Instruction-and-Assessment/Special-Education-Services/Documents/IDEAS%202014%20Handouts/Supporting%20Multiple%20Disabilities%20through%20Differentiation%20ppt.pdf

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http://www.iceary.org/Conference/Differentiation.Conrad-Curry.pdf

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5 Differentiated Instruction Strategies to Try Out This Year

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5 Differentiated Instruction Strategies to Try Out This Year

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https://www.weareteachers.com/5-differentiated-instruction-strategies-to-try-out-this-year/

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As a teacher, you already know that every student in your classroom is different. They have their own personalities, their own likes and dislikes, and their own ways of learning best. That's why differentiated instruction strategies are so important. They give every kid a chance to succeed by adapting the learning to fit their needs. Add these examples of differentiated instruction strategies to your teacher toolkit so you can pull them out and use them as needed.

What is differentiated instruction?

Differentiated instruction (DI) means tailoring your teaching so all students, regardless of their ability, can learn the classroom material. During the 1990s, Carol Ann Tomlinson introduced the concept of differentiation, and it quickly gained traction. She identified four elements (content, process, product, and learning environment) that teachers could customize in their classrooms. Her work opened the door to a wide array of differentiation approaches and techniques.

So, what does this mean for teachers? Are you expected to create an individualized lesson plan for every student in your classroom? Fortunately, that's not necessary. What you do need to do is ensure your lesson plans include a variety of activities, and provide options when students need them. Tomlinson recommends teachers consider how they can customize their teaching in four different areas: content, process, product, and learning environment. The differentiated instruction strategies and examples below all fit into one or more of these categories.

Learn much more about the details of this concept here: What Is Differentiated Instruction?

General Differentiated Instruction Strategies

You can use these DI strategies in almost any classroom or learning environment. For each, we've indicated which differentiated instruction areas apply (content, process, product, or learning environment).

Stoplight system

An important part of using differentiated instruction strategies is knowing when they're needed in the first place. Try an easy way to check for understanding by giving students a nonverbal way to show where they are. Green means they're good to go, yellow means they're struggling, and red means they're stuck entirely. Try this with sticky notes, folded desk tents, colored cups, and more. (DI Area: Process)

Learn more: Stoplight System at the Ardent Teacher

Pre-teaching

Getting ready to tackle a really tough topic? Try pre-teaching a smaller group of students first. This gives you a chance to try out your lesson plan, plus it creates a built-in group of "experts" to help you out when the whole class is learning. Use this strategy regularly, but switch up the student experts. Teaching others helps kids learn too. (DI Area: Process)

Learn more: Pre-Teaching at 3-Star Learning Experiences

Cooperative learning structures

Cooperative learning describes a strategy where students work together in small groups under supervision to accomplish a goal. These groups are carefully constructed based on student needs, abilities, and learning styles. It means knowing your students well, but once you do, you can put these groups together quickly depending on your current activity. (DI Area: Process)

Learn more: Top 10 Cooperative Learning Structures at Continually Learning

Projects with choices

When you offer choices, students feel more comfortable with the assignment. Plus, they often get a sense of ownership-being allowed to pick and choose encourages kids to take responsibility for their choices. To make this work, determine what goals all students need to achieve. Then, let them come up with ways to demonstrate those goals, or give them a few options that appeal to different types of learners. (DI Area: Product)

Learn more: How I Use Choice Boards To Increase Student Engagement at We Are Teachers

Self-paced learning

One of the best things technology has given us is a better ability to use self-paced learning in and out of the classroom. When you use computer programs and games, kids can advance at the pace that makes sense to them. Of course, you'll need to ensure students stay on task when they're working independently. Also, remember that a computer program may only have the ability to explain things one way, so be ready to step in and give kids information in other ways when needed. (DI Area: Product)

Learn more: How To Create a Self-Paced Classroom at Cult of Pedagogy

Color coding

One of the best differentiated instruction strategies is color coding. It can work in all sorts of classroom applications, including organization and routines. But you can apply it to learning strategies too. Color helps kids see things more clearly, especially when the subject is complex. (DI Area: Process)

Learn more: Color-Coding in the Classroom

Small groups

Elementary teachers have been using small reading groups as a differentiated instruction strategy for years. Really, they work in any subject, offering teachers a chance to get more face time with their students. You can group students by skill level, but that's not necessarily the best way to help learners. Consider grouping by learning styles instead, so you can tailor a lesson's delivery specifically for those styles. (DI Area: Learning Environment)

Learn more: Small Group Instruction Strategies and Tips for Success

Student-led lessons

Assign students a topic or let them pick their own, then ask them each to become an expert and plan a lesson to share with the class. This goes beyond just giving a presentation. Encourage them to think of creative ways to share the information, planning interactive activities they themselves would like to do in the classroom. You're bound to get a lot of new teaching strategies yourself! (DI Area: Process)

Learn more: Student-Led Lessons Rather Than Student Presentations at Faculty Focus

Question wait time

This one is all about teacher patience. When you ask your class a question, don't immediately call on the first person to raise their hand. Instead, wait a few more seconds, and call on someone whose hand came up a little later. This allows slower, more thorough thinkers a chance to get their ideas heard too. (DI Area: Process)

Learn more: Wait Time: Making Space for Authentic Learning at Kent State University

Classroom environment

When you're reading a book, what's your favorite position? Curled up on the couch with a pillow under your head? Stretched out on your stomach on your bed? Sitting upright at a table with a cup of tea? Can you handle background noise like music, or do you prefer it to be completely silent? Your students' choices would be just as varied as your own. Whenever you can, allow them to sit, stand, or even stretch out. Help them control distractions with noise-cancelling headphones, or let them listen to music with earbuds if it helps them concentrate. (DI Area: Learning Environment)

Learn more: 8 Types of Learning Spaces to Include in Your Classroom

Anchor charts

Good news! Those anchor charts hanging all over your walls are a popular differentiation strategy. They help visual learners succeed, giving them strong images to relate to key skills and topics. You don't need to be an artist to make great charts, but the more color, the better. (DI Area: Process)

Learn more: Anchor Charts 101

Co-teaching

Just as students have different learning styles, teachers have different instructional styles as well. Use this to your advantage! You don't necessarily need to co-teach full-time. Work as a team with your fellow teachers to learn what their styles are like, and consider switching things up from time to time by trading duties for certain lessons or subjects. (DI Area: Process)

Learn more: 8 Things Successful Co-Teachers Do

Peer buddy program

Pairing students of varying levels as buddies benefits all kids. Some schools pair those with disabilities with a buddy to help them as needed. Others pair older students with younger ones. Whatever you choose, plan your program carefully and monitor pairings to ensure they're working out. (DI Areas: Process, Learning Environment)

Learn more: A Win/Win for All Students: Expert Q&A on Peer Buddy Programs at Brookes Blog

Must-dos and may-dos

Not all students need extra time; in fact, some finish everything up too quickly! That's where the ability to provide enrichment activities comes in handy. For any lesson, be prepared with "must-do" and "may-do" activities. This helps kids prioritize the most important items and gives fast finishers meaningful work to do too. (DI Areas: Content, Process)

Learn more: The Case for Must-Dos and May-Dos

Multiple intelligences

You don't necessarily need to create multiple activities to cater to your students' multiple intelligences. For example, if you're reviewing a timeline of the American Civil War for an upcoming test, give each student an index card with a major event (e.g., Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, etc.), and while playing Civil War-era music, ask students to line up in front of the class to put the events in order. This single activity activates brain stimulation for six different learning styles:

Visual-spatial learners use a mental image of the lineup as a mnemonic device.

Kinesthetic learners get to move around and create a life-size timeline.

Interpersonal learners communicate with one another to decide where to stand in line.

Musical-rhythm learners benefit from the background music.

Logical-mathematical learners thrive on creating a chronological line.

Verbal-linguistic learners review notes and their textbooks during the activity.

Learn more: Understanding Multiple Intelligences for the Classroom at ASCD

Audiobooks

Reading is a key skill, no doubt about it. But when a student struggles with it, it can often affect their learning in other areas too. Unless reading itself is key to the topic you're presenting, consider letting students listen to an audiobook instead. This lets them focus on the content, rather than just the words and sentences. (DI Area: Process)

Learn more: 10 Places Kids Can Listen to Free Audiobooks

Pre-assessments

Before you present a new topic, take a few minutes to find out what kids already know. Their responses might change how you decide to teach, especially if you find they're lacking in prerequisite knowledge or already understand the new subject pretty well. Tip: Save time by checking out Kahoot! for pre-made quizzes on your topic. (DI Areas: Process, Product)

Learn more: 6 Benefits of Pre-Assessment at Minds in Bloom

Alternative assessments

Written tests aren't the only way to check for learning, as teachers well know. Alternative assessments provide ways to differentiate in your classroom by giving students multiple ways to show what they know. For students who struggle with writing, consider a discussion instead (unless you're specifically working on writing skills). Instead of a traditional book report, have students turn the story into their own graphic novel. Find ways to help students shine! (DI Areas: Process, Content)

Learn more: 25 Alternative Assessment Ideas

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

UDL offers educators a way to reduce the need for differentiation strategies and scaffolding, by building curriculum and lessons that include multiple means of engagement, representation, and action and expression. Look for learning materials that use UDL to use in your classroom, or take the time to design your own lessons using the UDL principles. (DI Area: Multiple)

Learn more: What Is UDL and How Do Teachers Make It Work in the Classroom?

Accommodations

An outside-of-the-box way to find more differentiated instruction strategies is to explore lists of the classroom accommodations used to created IEPs and 504 plans. These include terrific ways to differentiate, even when students don't have specific written plans. You don't need to be diagnosed with dyscalculia to benefit from using graph paper to line up your math problems. Typing is easier than handwriting for lots of people. Reviewing an example list can spark ideas for all of your students. (DI Area: Multiple)

Learn more: 80+ IEP Accommodations Every Teacher Should Bookmark

English Language Arts Differentiated Instruction Examples

Leveled Reading Materials: Leveled books have been around for a long time, but today teachers can also use leveled reading sites like Newsela. (DI Area: Content)

High-Low Books: High-interest, low-readability level books keep readers engrossed page after page, without leaving them feeling frustrated or bored. Find a list of our favorites here. (DI Area: Content)

Literacy Centers: Center work allows kids to go at their own pace and work privately, without feeling the need to keep up with others. Explore our big list of literacy center ideas here. (DI Areas: Process, Learning Environment)

Varied Spelling/Vocabulary Lists: Offer shorter or longer lists depending on aptitude, using more-advanced words to challenge kids who excel in this area. (DI Area: Content)

Book Report Options: Give students a variety of ways to report back on the book they've read, including written papers, presentations, posters, skits, and more. Find 40+ book report ideas here. (DI Area: Process)

Writing Tools: If handwriting is a challenge, explore options like special pencil grips or try one of these easy hacks. When handwriting isn't the learning goal, offer kids options like oral responses or typing instead. (DI Areas: Process, Product)

Reading Spaces: Provide spaces in your classroom where students can get comfortable while they read. Vary the lighting, seating, and noise levels to create areas for different styles. See some of our favorite reading nooks here. (DI Area: Learning Environment)

Diverse Materials: Ensure your reading choices include diverse and multicultural characters, settings, and authors. (DI Area: Content)

Flexible Groups: Instead of leaving students in the same-leveled reading groups at all times, mix up your groupings by interest, readiness, or learning styles. (DI Area: Learning Environment)

Writing Conferences: Meet with students individually to identify strengths and challenges. Or try peer writing groups that partner stronger writers with those who need more help. (DI Areas: Process, Learning Environment)

Math Differentiated Instruction Examples

Manipulatives: These aren't just for little kids! Make math manipulatives available to older students too, to help those who benefit from kinesthetic learning. (DI Area: Process)

Evens or Odds: When giving homework assignments or practice worksheets, give students who need extra time the option to complete only the even or odd questions. This gives them effective practice but keeps them motivated. (DI Areas: Content, Process)

Math Centers: Just like literacy centers, math centers let kids choose their pace and learning process. Try these 10 activities for secondary math centers. (DI Areas: Learning Environment, Process)

Small Groups: After teaching a concept, put kids in small groups to tackle practice problems together. Many times, students will show each other new ways of learning that teachers might not think of. (DI Areas: Learning Environment, Process)

Open-Ended Questions: Students think of math as having one cut-and-dried answer, but you can encourage more creative thinking with broader questions. Learn more from My Teaching Cupboard. (DI Areas: Process, Product)

Math Books: We're not talking about textbooks. Use storybooks with a math theme to engage reluctant learners. (DI Area: Process)

Assessment Options: Give students different ways to demonstrate their knowledge, whether it's answering flash cards out loud, writing an explanation of their solution methods, or drawing pictures to explain their thinking. (DI Areas: Product, Process)

Real-Life Math: Whenever possible, use real examples to show kids why math matters. Money activities can be especially effective in engaging students. (DI Area: Process)

Active Math Games: Many students learn best when their bodies are involved. Use active math games to engage students on a variety of levels. (DI Area: Process)

Pre-Teach Vocabulary: This may be especially important for ESL speakers. Ensure they know specialized terms (e.g., shape names) before tackling math concepts. (DI Area: Process)

Science and Social Studies Differentiated Instruction Examples

Graphic Organizers: This note-taking method encourages students to organize information visually. Kids might draw pictures or diagrams instead of writing words-whatever works for them. Learn about graphic organizers here. (DI Area: Process)

Audiobooks and Videos: Reading is an important skill, but it can hold students back in other subjects. Give kids the option to use audiobooks or videos that cover the same content. This is also helpful for different learning styles. (DI Area: Process)

Project Choices: Let students choose from different options to demonstrate their knowledge on a subject. They might write a paper, perform a skit, create a picture book, draw a poster, give a presentation, or more. (DI Area: Product, Process)

Diverse Materials: Use videos with diverse presenters, read books or articles by diverse authors, and explore stories of many cultures. (DI Areas: Learning Environment, Content)

Pre-Teach Vocabulary and Concepts: Just as in math, it's important to ensure all students are on the same basic page before you begin instruction. Pre-assessments can help you learn which vocabulary terms or foundational concepts some (or all) students need reinforced. (DI Area: Process)

Examples of Special Education Differentiated Instruction Strategies

Note: Special education students usually have Individualized Education Plans (IEP), with a variety of required accommodations and modifications. Always be sure to follow a student's IEP requirements and recommendations. Learn more about special education here.

Time or Workload Modifications: Reduce the amount of work expected from a student, or increase the amount of time they have to complete it. The use of "evens and odds" for math worksheets is a good example of differentiated instruction for special ed students. (DI Areas: Product, Assessment)

Scaffolding: Provide support for students by breaking down learning into manageable chunks. Find multiple ways to scaffold instruction here. (DI Area: Process)

Tailored Learning Spaces: Some students need complete silence while they learn; others prefer background noise. Headphones can be a solution for both. Explore small environmental changes you can make to differentiate learning for all students. (DI Area: Learning Environment)

Routines: Special education students often benefit from established routines. Keep their learning schedule the same each day, and use proven instruction methods that they know and are comfortable with. (DI Area: Process)

Peer or Teacher Assistance: When possible, extra attention from a teacher, teacher's aide, or peer can provide the support special ed students need. They might read questions aloud for students to respond to, explain things in a new way, or help them stay on task as they work. (DI Area: Process)

Resources for Differentiated Instruction Strategies

What are your go-to differentiated instruction strategies? Come share your ideas and ask for advice in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

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50 Differentiated Instruction Strategies Every Teacher Can Use

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Use these examples of differentiated instruction strategies in your classroom to ensure every student has a chance to succeed each day.

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https://education.ky.gov/educational/diff/documents/strategiesthatdifferentiateinstruction4.12.pdf

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https://www.teachthought.com/pedagogy/50-strategies-for-differentiated-instruction/

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The Ultimate List: 50 Strategies For Differentiated Instruction

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Here are 50 strategies for differentiated instruction to better meet the needs of your diverse, evolving learners.

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http://differentiatedkindergarten.com/nine-tools-for-differentiating/?m

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One of the most common questions I get about differentiating invariably involves organizing and keeping materials separate for your different tiered groups. So to keep things quick and simple for this post, I wanted to tell you about some of the best tools I have found for differentiating instruction in regards to readiness.

I personally like to organize my reading and math levels by color. Sometimes I have four levels, but most often, I use three. Pink is for students who are working well beyond the standard, orange is for kids who have mastered and are above the standard, green is for students just on level and blue for students who might be below level and need a bit more support. So for instance, as a simple example: if the skill we are addressing in math is fluently adding and subtracting, blue students would be working perhaps JUST on simple addition using manipulatives 0-5, green students might be adding and subtracting 0-5, orange may be just adding and subtracting 0-10 because they can easily master 0-5, and maybe pink would be working on adding 10 more and subtracting 10 less. These are just some random examples, but you'll get the idea.

First of all, how do students know to which 'tier color' they belong?

Please note, this post includes affiliate links.

Well since their level of readiness may change from skill to skill, I never have permanent name cards for centers. My name cards are always laminated, and I use dry erase marker to erase the names as needed and move them to a different colored tier. Need a set of name cards for Daily 5?

You can get some free ones HERE. Or if you prefer a smaller set for math stations like the ones in the picture below, you can get those by grabbing them from THIS blog post. Either way, you will need my first three items for differentiating to get your name cards started.
(Just click any of the pictures below to find out where to get these items or to find out more information.)

TIERING STUDENT CENTERS

Here's a little secret that you need to know. School laminators don't hold a candle to one of these little laminators. They are a lightweight, work horse.

I've had mine forever (which is an older model) and love it so much that I have one at home and one at school.

You don't need name brand laminating sheets to have great lamination. Trust me. I use bulk sheets from Amazon and they have never disappointed. They are heavier than traditional school lamination and hold up great.

I only use black Expo. Sorry. I am may be a bit of a Dry Erase Marker snob. I don't like to spend time and frustration on colored dry erase markers that don't erase from laminate. Other black brands will work, but honestly, if you're asking I think Expo is the best.

Now that you have your name cards ready to go, you can either use a magnetic white board to display them or a small pocket chart. If you're using magnetic board, save yourself the hassle and frustration of magnetic tape and go straight for the self-adhesive magnetic buttons. They work TONS better.

ORGANIZING TIERED CENTER MATERIALS

Now that you have your students set up to understand their tiers, how do you organize materials at each station?

When students arrive at a station, they need to be able to quickly identify what materials they will using so they can quickly get to work. That means I needed to find quick and simply storage solutions for holding each tier's specific work. Depending on the type of activity, I've collected a variety of storage options throughout the years, but these are just a few of my favorites.

Poly envelopes like these are the best thing I have found for organizing larger, flat items, papers, or response sheets. They are easy for little fingers to manipulate and keep neat since that have a simple Velcro latch.

And these Dot Stickers are the easiest way to label the poly envelope (or really any container you chose) by color. They come in many color options, but these are my class colors so I use these. I used to purchase those little circle stickers that are white and color them in with a colored Sharpie to label my envelopes, but these are the BEST and EASIEST option I have found yet.

6. ZIPPERED POUCHES

For smaller game pieces or pieces for my sensory bins, for instance, I like these zippered pencil pouches. Smaller items can lie flat and students can easily distinguish which set of materials they should use. The other materials in the colors that do not apply to them, stay safely and neatly in their pouch.

7. PENCIL BOXES

For small but loose items that might not lie flat, I use colored pencil boxes.

Students grab the box that applies to their tiered color and open it up to find their materials.

8. DECORATIVE COLORED TINS AND CONTAINERS

For games and activities that are a bit larger or bulky, I have a variety of different types of containers, buckets and totes from which to choose. When I find them in my tiered colors, I just snatch them up. I have to admit, I may have a bit of a container obsession though. The fact that I can use them for differentiating justifies it though . . . right?

And finally, these Flair Pens are great for when you need to identify a group on the go or when documenting. I often will grab a colored flair pen to keep my notes for each tier clear and organized.

So there you have my favorite tools for tiering my classroom stations. If you have any questions, please feel free to drop me a note. Also, if you'd like to learn more about differentiating Daily 5 in your classroom, I suggest you click on the picture below to check out that blog post.

Or for Differentiated Math Stations, click on the picture here.

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One of the most common questions I get about differentiating invariably involves organizing and keeping materials separate for your different tiered groups. So to keep things quick and simple for this post, I wanted to tell you about some of the best tools I have found for differentiating instruction in regards to readiness.

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https://www.pinterest.com/explore/differentiated-instruction/?lp=true

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Find and save ideas about Differentiated instruction on Pinterest, the world's catalog of ideas.

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What is Differentiated Instruction? Examples of How to Differentiate Instruction in the Classroom

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What is Differentiated Instruction? Examples of How to Differentiate Instruction in the Classroom

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https://education.cu-portland.edu/blog/classroom-resources/examples-of-differentiated-instruction/

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http://www.kathyglassconsulting.com/documents/LearningForwardHandoutsKathyGlass2012.pdf

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Differentiated Instruction Aligned to the ELA Common Core Standards

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http://www.walch.com/samplepages/065146.pdf

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Nine Strategies for Reaching All Learners in English Language Arts

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Nine Strategies for Reaching All Learners in English Language Arts

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https://www.edutopia.org/blog/stw-expanded-learning-time-individualized-learning-hassan-mansaray