3. Planning for Differentiated Instruction 

This is a chart I created in order to keep track of the students that have accommodations in the classes I teach.  In this version, I removed the names of students to ensure privacy.  

According to Standard 3, a teacher should, "when planning instruction, address goals and objectives contained in plans developed under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 USC 794), individualized education programs (IEP) (see 23 Ill. Adm. Code 226 (Special Education)) or individual family service plans (IFSP) (see 23 Ill. Adm. Code 226 and 34 CFR 300.24; 2006)" (Performance Indicators 3O).  It is my goal to ensure that each of my students receive the support that is necessary to allow them to achieve great things in school.  By tracking all their accommodations, I am making sure I providing students with these services.  

By tracking the current accommodations a student is receiving, I can make sure my instruction is meeting the needs of the variety of students I have in my classroom.  I can tailor my instruction to offer them the best experience possible.  It is my goal to provide each student with the tools they need to succeed in my class.  This chart is an important step on my way to that initiative. 

This is an example of a lesson plan I wrote that details the ideas I had for differentiation in the classroom.  I wrote out my plan for each group of students and then implemented it in the class. 

A teacher should "Understand how to co-plan with other classroom teachers, parents or guardians, paraprofessionals, school specialists, and community representatives to design learning experiences" (Knowledge Indicator 3F).  I make sure to consider the data when I am working on planning for instructional delivery so that the needs of each unique student are met.  I want to create room in every lesson to make sure a child can succeed. 

By writing out a plan for how to best aid each student during a lesson, I have learned to teach to each child's needs.  My lessons are structured to ensure a good experince for every student.  The goal is to met each student where they are and help them take a step up.  If I can do that, I feel that I am helping that child succeed.