This is a framework from Backbone Communications. I post these frameworks because trying to treat different students differently is more complicated than it sounds, and it helps to have pictures of the various options and approaches. Read more »
This morning I played tennis with a friend of mine in his seventies, and we observed that the way many classrooms function hasn’t changed much since he was a student. In the meantime, the way we generate, sort, analyze, distribute and share information has changed dramatically. Likewise, the tools we possess to communicate with each Read more »
I adapted this framework from the book Disrupting Class and from Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences Theory. My goal is not to propose the ‘right’ way, but rather to demonstrate that even with a few variables you end up with many different customized lesson plans (in this case, 8 x 3 x 3 = 72). Read more »
Some tips on the dos and don’ts of differentiated instruction, and an overview of the key reasons that some teachers resist this educational approach. Read article or check out model lessons for differentiation. Read more »
How a South Carolina elementary school has used computers to engage students in a learning process calibrated to their individual needs and abilities. Read story or go directly to resources/downloads from Forest Lake Elementary School. Read more »
“The baby boom, ” says Derrick Chasan of CogniFit, “Is the first generation that both has access to cognitive fitness programs and is aware of the fact that exercising your cognitive abilities helps you keep them sharp.” In other words, use it or lose it. The problem is that you get very good at what Read more »
The bankruptcy earlier this month of DeCode Genetics raises the question, “Just how unique is each human being?” The well-funded ($700 million) company found that the genetic underpinnings of human disease are much more complicated than scientists anticipated. It seems that at minimum thousands of genetic mutations – rather than just a handful – cause Read more »
(excerpt) The teachers provide “differentiated instruction” – tailoring goals and expectations to each individual student, rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach that teaches students the same concepts at the same pace. “It’s self-defeating for kids to come into a classroom . . . and see that they’re all expected to do the same thing that Read more »
(excerpt) Madison Elementary in Hinsdale, IL uses at least four diagnostic or standardized tests a year to detect student strengths and weaknesses so it can address them in “differentiated instruction.” A reading specialist works with small groups of struggling kids, and a gifted specialist joins classroom teachers in third, fourth and fifth grades to provide Read more »
