Key Elements
As I read through the key elements of Differentiation, I was surprised to see all the instances I already use when creating lessons and units. When I put together a lesson, I always try to provide multiple, and flexible methods of presentation for my students. Choice is another key component of Differentiation, and many lessons I have created give students the choice in which they choose to present their learning to not only myself but to their classmates. For example, students will get to choose from a small list of comprehension activities, short essay, poster project, poem, powerpoint, etc. Differentiation in the classroom is necessary if I wish for all students to be engaged!
As I read through the key elements of Differentiation, I was surprised to see all the instances I already use when creating lessons and units. When I put together a lesson, I always try to provide multiple, and flexible methods of presentation for my students. Choice is another key component of Differentiation, and many lessons I have created give students the choice in which they choose to present their learning to not only myself but to their classmates. For example, students will get to choose from a small list of comprehension activities, short essay, poster project, poem, powerpoint, etc. Differentiation in the classroom is necessary if I wish for all students to be engaged!
Struggling Learner Technique
In the article "Using Flexible Technology to Meet the Needs of Diverse Learners: What Teachers Can Do," I found a technique that could be helpful in my classroom. In Microsoft Word there is a tool you can use to check your readability score. When you use this tool, Word presents the reading grade level and the number of passive sentences. I can use this in my classroom to check the reading level of electronic text but more importantly check the level of a students' writing. When a student is struggling to read and write, I will be able to check the level of a given document before that student gets their hands on the material. If the material is too challenging I will be able to set up a system that will benefit the struggling learner.
In the article "Using Flexible Technology to Meet the Needs of Diverse Learners: What Teachers Can Do," I found a technique that could be helpful in my classroom. In Microsoft Word there is a tool you can use to check your readability score. When you use this tool, Word presents the reading grade level and the number of passive sentences. I can use this in my classroom to check the reading level of electronic text but more importantly check the level of a students' writing. When a student is struggling to read and write, I will be able to check the level of a given document before that student gets their hands on the material. If the material is too challenging I will be able to set up a system that will benefit the struggling learner.
Content Area Resource - Google Maps
While looking through the UDLStrategies website I found a resource that I will use in my future classroom. Google Maps allows for you to see the street view of many places around the world. I will be able to use this resource when I am discussing an area of the world that students can't picture or have never seen before. Google Maps is easy to use and students can access this as well. |
VozMe
VozMe allows you to take a piece of text to become an MP3 file, also called an auto file. Students who are auditory learners can use this resource, as well as students who enjoy listening to text rather than just reading it independently. This is a great resource that will be available for students in my classroom. |