Demonstrating Standard 1.5

1.5) Differentiate teaching to meet the specific learning needs of students across the full range of abilities

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of strategies for differentiating teaching to meet the specific learning needs of students across the full range of abilities.

Differentiation has been a heightened topic of discussion over recent years and is becoming increasingly vital as there is greater recognition of the diversity of needs and requirements within the individual classrooms today. There are several methods through which differentiation can be applied. There are different grouping strategies or tactics such as interest-based grouping or readiness-based grouping. I have found that the collaborative approach can be extremely effective in terms of differentiation. Several Stage 1 English students underwent a 'Jigsaw Activity' (as seen below) that combines inquiry-based approach to learning; as well as good communication and listening between peers, in order to share that knowledge and information with others. This was a combination of basing the groups by interest and study methods, as well as according to readiness based on pre-assessment data. This proved to be an excellent method for the students to push the boundaries in a safe learning environment.

With Middle school year levels, I strive to apply theories such as Edward DeBono's 'Six Thinking Hats'. This caters for diversity, as it considers different learning preferences of the students within the class. If the lesson plans and unit plans can be appropriately targeted towards an optional based approach (as seen in the Advertisement Assignment for a Year 9 English class). Each student was assigned or designated a specific role within the group, that satisfied their strengths, as seen below. This drew out the students individual personal strengths and allowed them to contribute these strengths into a group situation or scenario. 

In conclusion, there are several differentiation methods that may be appropriately used in order to meet the students at their required level of understanding. However, the most vital aspect of this entire process is to ensure that you really 'know' your students, become aware with their NEPs or ILPs, and strategise, plan and implement accordingly.