Differentiation

Differentiation at McGraw – Meeting the Needs of All Learners

Have you ever been given a one-size-fits-all piece of clothing that didn’t really fit? The same idea also applies to how children learn. At McGraw, we believe that one-size-fits-all instruction does not fit the needs of all students.  Below are answers to a few of the questions parents may have about differentiation.

Differentiation involves teachers designing learning experiences that match student’s readiness levels, learning styles and interests. All students learn differently, and differentiation is how teachers react responsibly to different learning needs. Inquiry and differentiation are closely linked because both strive to actively engage students in learning, provide students choices for their learning and help them construct new understandings.

At McGraw we believe that every student should be challenged to grow in their skills, knowledge and understandings, moving beyond where they are at the beginning of the school year. Differentiation is a proven method that master teachers use to ensure that every student demonstrates growth. It is the opposite of “one-size-fits-all” instruction. It is “tailor-made” to fit individual students.

Differentiation can take many forms, some of which are more visible and others which are more subtle. Some of the key differentiation strategies include:

• Providing students with choices in how they learn and demonstrate their learning
• Using assessment results to design learning experiences that meet individual student’s learning needs
• Students working in small groups, partners, and independently on learning tasks focused on their unique learning needs
• providing students with alternative class work and homework assignments (not just more of the same work) that extend their learning of a specific skill or topic
• providing review and re-teaching for students who need help in developing an important skill or concept
• open-ended learning tasks and questioning strategies that encourage the development of students’ higher-level thinking skills

1. Talk to your child’s teacher. Communication is the key. A strong parent-teacherpartnership helps ensure that your child’s unique educational needs are met.
   
2. Ask to volunteer in your child’s classroom at times when you can help facilitate differentiated learning experiences.  
   
3. Look for examples of differentiation to be shared in class newsletters, the Eagle Edition and on the McGraw website.
   
4. Ask your child. Children that feel challenged and express excitement about their  learning are indicators that differentiation is happening in their classrooms.

We look forward to a great year as we work together to provide each child with the best learning experience possible – one that fits them and also gives them room to grow!