A Glossary of Terms for Differentiated Instruction

Differentiated instruction is an educational approach that acknowledges the diverse needs, abilities, and learning styles of students in a classroom. It involves tailoring teaching methods, content, and assessment to accommodate individual learners’ strengths and challenges. To fully understand the world of differentiated instruction, it’s essential to familiarize ourselves with the key terms and concepts that underpin this powerful teaching methodology. In this post, we present a comprehensive glossary of terms related to differentiated instruction, providing you with the knowledge and tools to implement this approach effectively in your classroom.

View the Glossary Here

Common terms include:

1. Differentiation: The process of modifying instruction, curriculum, and assessment to meet the varying needs of students. It recognizes that learners have different abilities, interests, and learning styles, and aims to create a personalized learning experience for each student.
2. Learning Profile: An individual student’s preferred learning style, strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Understanding students’ learning profiles helps teachers design activities and materials that suit their unique needs.
3. Readiness: The level of preparedness and prior knowledge a student possesses regarding a specific topic. Differentiated instruction considers students’ readiness levels to provide appropriate learning experiences.
4. Interest: Students’ individual preferences, passions, and curiosity about specific subjects or topics. Teachers use students’ interests to engage them in the learning process and make it more relevant and enjoyable.
5. Learning Style: An individual’s preferred way of processing and understanding information. Common learning styles include visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and reading/writing.
6. Flexible Grouping: The practice of organizing students into groups based on specific learning needs or interests. Groups can change frequently to accommodate varying topics and skills.
7. Tiered Assignments: Providing different levels of complexity or depth in assignments to address students’ varying readiness levels. Students can choose the level that suits their current abilities.
8. Learning Stations: Physical or digital stations set up in the classroom where students can engage in various activities related to the lesson. Stations offer differentiated tasks based on learning styles or readiness levels.
9. Scaffolding: The supportive techniques and guidance provided by the teacher to help students successfully complete a task or master a concept. Scaffolding gradually reduces as students gain confidence and proficiency.
10. Formative Assessment: Ongoing, informal assessments that provide feedback to both teachers and students during the learning process. Formative assessments help identify areas for improvement and guide instructional decisions.

Differentiated instruction empowers educators to create inclusive and engaging classrooms, where every student’s unique needs and abilities are considered. By understanding and implementing the terms from our glossary, you can enhance your teaching practice and unlock the potential of diverse learners.

Remember, differentiation is not about creating separate lesson plans for every student; it is about embracing diversity and providing multiple pathways to learning success. As you incorporate these differentiated instruction strategies, you’ll witness students’ growth, enthusiasm, and ownership of their education.