Differentiation is purposeful; teachers should base it on the students in a classroom. Use surveys or quizzes to determine the multiple intelligences and learning styles of students. Analyze data from standardized tests and formative assessments to group students according to ability. For example, an English teacher who notices that several students are interested in drama or acting might allow them to write and perform an extended scene from a literary work as a final assessment. The secondary classroom is an ideal environment for differentiation because students are encouraged to explore their interests to prepare for future careers.
Use pre-tests to determine what students already know about a subject area and group them according to their knowledge or interest, so every student learns something new. For example, a biology student whose parent is a doctor may already have extensive knowledge of human anatomy. The teacher might devise a learning contract to replace the standard content and allow the student to delve into an area of interest, such as physical therapy. Additionally, a history unit about Ancient Rome might include groups that specialize in Roman religion, gender relationships, architecture and government. These groups could present their findings to the class during the unit.
Middle and high school students already have an idea about their preferred learning style. While it is impossible to accommodate every learning style in every unit, teachers can examine the required objectives to determine which units might lend themselves best to differentiated activities. For example, teachers may provide students with a choice of materials to use for a research project, including written, electronic and visual sources. Teachers can also develop activities within a unit that cater equally to auditory, visual and kinetic learners. For example, a teacher could use discussions, PowerPoints and simulations instead of relying on lecture alone.
Giving students choice in how to present their learning is one of the fastest ways to differentiate instruction. Beyond tests and essays, teachers can ask students to create original writing, conduct experiments, build models, solve a complex problem, give a speech or defend a position in a debate. This is a good way to incorporate technology into the classroom, allowing students to use programs such as Adobe PhotoShop, Windows Movie Maker, PhotoStory 3, Audacity or other comparable software to demonstrate their learning in new, creative ways. Keep in mind student interests when designing product choices, or allow students to suggest alternate product options, with your approval.