The competent teacher differentiates instruction by using a variety of strategies that support critical and creative thinking, problem-solving, and continuous growth and learning. This teacher understands that the classroom is a dynamic environment requiring ongoing modification of instruction to enhance learning for each student.
The lesson was planned with various differentiations in mind for all types of students to learn the content presented.
For the kinesthetic learner, I used real-life manipulatives such as a laundry basket, piles of clothes, and a folding board to teach the student using real-life, hands-on experience.
For my visual and auditory learners, I recorded a video of myself using the folding board. In a small 42-second video, I demonstrated the steps to fold a t-shirt to help students stay on task and model how to use the board. I also printed a task analysis illustrating all the steps.
For the students who benefit from movement, I incorporated an interactive whiteboard activity to help boost students' focus, retention, creativity, and mood.
I can adeptly implement effective differentiated instruction by using a diverse array of materials, technologies, and resources, which illustrates my understanding of my student's varied learning needs. I used Google Slides in the laundry unit, which included several embedded interactive activities. Through strategic integration of multimedia resources, such as interactive educational technologies and diverse learning materials, I was able to cater to different learning styles, ensuring that each student has access to content in a manner that resonates with their individual strengths, as stated in Illinois Professional Teaching Standard 5 - Knowledge Indicators – The competent teacher: 5C) knows how to implement effective differentiated instruction through the use of a wide variety of materials, technologies, and resources;. I learned that employing a wide range of instructional tools can create a dynamic and responsive learning environment that supports students' current abilities and fosters continuous growth and development. My commitment to differentiating my lessons reflects my dedication to cultivating a classroom where all my students can thrive and continually expand their knowledge and skills.
In the laundry unit, I skillfully employ effective differentiated instruction by utilizing recording and video modeling techniques, demonstrating a keen awareness of diverse learning needs. I took it a step further by adding my video to my YouTube channel so that students could access the material easily. Recognizing the power of visual learning, I recorded myself modeling lesson tasks using the folding board in the video to provide students with a personalized and accessible resource. I was able to connect with Illinois Professional Teaching Standard 5 - Performance Indicators – The competent teacher: 5N) uses technology to accomplish differentiated instructional objectives that enhance learning for each student because this approach accommodates various learning styles and allows students to engage with the material at their own pace, fostering a deeper understanding of the content. I learned that by incorporating technology in this manner, my students can access individualized resources to support their growth and learning journey in an inclusive learning environment.