Differentiated Instruction



My name is Erin Lowry and I live in Redding, California. I have a multiple subject credential because I want to teach the lower elementary grades. I have not started teaching yet, but I have worked in a classroom for years as a teacher’s assistant. I have passion for children and for teaching which led me to become a teacher.

As far as differentiated learning and instruction, I do not have a lot of experience because I am not teaching yet but, I have learned a lot from observing other teachers. In today’s diverse classrooms one of the things I feel to be most important is to make connections and build relationships with students. Students will feel more comfortable in the classroom room when they feel known and valued by their teacher. As educators when we are able to understand our students’ backgrounds and interests, it allows us to help students to become more successful. One way a teacher can do this is to work with students in small groups or to work one on one with students.

 I think it is important to encourage students to celebrate language and cultural differences. One way to do this is by having students teach the class words in their native languages or by having them share something with the class about their cultures. Also, we can read books to students about different cultures or take students on virtual field trips to learn about different countries and cultures.
One strategy I have observed that worked really well is having students work in groups or with a partner. We had one student who spoke no English when she first came to our classroom, but working with a partner or in a group really helped her to learn the language quickly. She was able to learn by emulating the other students in her group.

Technology is a great tool for differentiated learning. Students can use computer programs that have games and activities to help aid in their learning. We had a student who struggled with reading, so we had this student use a computer program called Mindplay. Through using this program the student’s reading level improved significantly. There are also videos students can watch that create a great visual for what students are learning.

Using graphic organizers are another great tool I have seen used for differentiated learning. For ELL students, graphic organizers can contain visual illustrations that will help these students to better understand the vocabulary. Graphic organizers can help students to make connections between concepts and ideas. This a great tool for visual learners.

As an educator it is important to know your students and to find strategies to help them to reach their full potential.

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