Differentiation: "Be The Boss" Strategy

This easy strategy can be used when asking students to write a short response (in a notebook, workbook, etc.). 

Pair students. Student A gets to “be the boss,” telling Student B what to write in Student B’s answer space. Then the students switch roles, and Student B gets to “be the boss,” telling Student A what to write in Student A's answer space. 

(Students can ask each other to elaborate, if a response is too brief.)

The teacher calls on some students to share responses. This helps the teacher check for understanding and provide immediate feedback. 

This strategy helps to:

*provide access to all learners --everyone participates

*boost student talk, collaboration, and student-to-student encouragement

*engage students who typically avoid writing

*increase accountability to complete a task

Pair students intentionally, considering:

*language proficiency levels

*academic levels

*personalities

For pairs of students needing extension activities, you could create success criteria requiring higher demand.

Reach out to ML if you want more information about this strategy.  Thanks!