Document student learning styles and preferences using surveys, games, journal writing activities and classroom observation. For example, learning style quizzes help determine how students process new information and how they might prefer to demonstrate mastery of the material.
Make mathematics instruction relevant to students' lives. Students will better grasp mathematics concepts when they can connect them to their own lives. For example, use shopping scenarios to teach students to add and multiply decimals. Teach students to convert percentages to decimals by having them figure out how much a certain item might cost if it was marked 25% off.
Use cooperative, flexible grouping and hands-on activities. Students working in small groups not only get to practice what they have learned, but they also get a chance to discuss the concepts and observe how other students work with the same information. For example, students can practice measurement concepts by working together in groups to find the perimeter, area or volume of different objects. Give students different roles in their groups. One student might measure the object, while another student records the data and another student sets up the problem to find the perimeter, area or volume.
Use a variety of mathematics manipulatives, or objects to help students grasp math concepts. Some examples of math manipulatives are objects such as blocks, shapes, play money, clocks with moveable hands and color-coded decimal and fraction towers. All students, not just kinesthetic or tactile learners, can benefit from using math manipulatives because it allows them to work with concrete objects to solidify abstract concepts.
Assess students throughout the learning process. A key to truly differentiated mathematics instruction is on-going assessment. Informal assessment throughout the learning process helps teachers determine how to adjust lessons to better meet student needs. For example, if a student is struggling with a concept, the teacher can provide learning scaffolds to make the lesson more accessible. Teachers also can provide students who have grasped the new concept opportunities to go deeper into the lesson with extension activities.