HOW TO MAKE EVERY LESSON ACCESSIBLE FOR EVERY LEARNER

ELIZABETH SMITH, ELF

What is Differentiation?

Learning Styles

Visual Learn through seeing Needs visuals, graphics, pictures, readings

Auditory Learn through listening Craves discussions, debates,

Tactile/Kinesthetic Learn through movement and touch Needs physical and active activities

How can we identify learning styles?

First, know your students! Ask them how they perceive themselves and what they prefer.

Surveys, questionnaires and quizzes

Signs of Visual Learners: Drawings, avid note-takers, ask for words on board

Signs of Auditory Learners: Ask for repeated instructions, like to converse, enjoy audio clips

Signs of Tactile/Kinesthetic Learners: Drumming, swaying, like to stand up, prefer movement,

performances

Skill Levels

How do we differentiate in order to not only “teach to the middle”?

Lower levels (literacy, speaking skills, vocabulary) Provide “amplified,” high-interest materials with explicitly taught

vocabulary and model heavily

Intermediate Pace appropriately where students are simultaneously

comprehending as well as being challenged

Higher Levels Adequately pushed and stimulated so as not to lose their engagement

Student