The Differentiated Classroom

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(1) Reflect on what you think might be some of the characteristics of the differentiated classroom based on your reading thus far. Tomlinson lists eight principles that guide differentiated instruction (Chapter 2: 1999). To what extent is each of these principles reflected in your classroom? Look at the brief profiles of Lin, Rafael, Serena, Trevor, Lesley, Danny, and Theo (Chapter 2; 2001). Who do they remind you of in your school or classroom?

Contemplating on the idea of differentiated classroom, it can be seen that it involves the collaborative attempt of both the teacher and students to create a classroom environment that embraces diversity and differences. With these differences, it helps create the realization towards finding new ways to improve the level of appreciation and learning of content. With these, it helps the educator determine the patterns or methods of instruction that can best apply and supplement the needs of students in the classroom. From this perspective, I do believe that this serves as an important foundation for shaping a differentiated classroom.

Similarly, the readings also provide relevant insights about the associated roles and responsibilities that educators have to fulfill in order to create a differentiated classroom. Specifically, it may involve addressing key issues such as communication, assessment, instruction, standards, and other related principles that influence the acquisition of information and learning (Tomlinson, 1999). These elements act altogether to create a classroom that is conducive to change and recognizes the value and potential of differentiated classroom to the needs of students today.

In terms of its application in my classroom, it can be seen that I have recognize...

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...liated due to the process.

Seeing this, the ability of grades to influence and create positive and negative roles to students remains to be the responsibility of the educator. Given that grades help manifest a standard for students to adhere to, teachers must try to create an environment where they can facilitate and motivate students to do better (Tomlinson, 2001). By using grades as an instrument for development, it can create a positive perception for students to improve and seek connections with instruction and course content.

Reference

Tomlinson, C.A. (2001). Chapter 2: Elements of Differentiation. How to differentiate instruction in mixed-ability classroom. US: ACSD.

Tomlinson, C.A. (1999) Chapter 2: The Rationale for Differentiated Classroom in Mixed Ability Classrooms. The differentiated classroom: responding to the needs of all learners. US: ASCD.

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