Differentiating instruction would set a learning environment conducive for learning Mathematics. A number of different methods of teaching Mathematics have been proposed by different educators. It is not appropriate to commit to one particular method. Teachers need flexible knowledge that they can adapt to their students and the demands of situation that arise in their classrooms.
After several meetings with the students a Mathematics teacher tends to discover the varying abilities of the students. They not only differ in their abilities but also in their learning styles and learning abilities as well as their language abilities.
How can you help all learners to reach their full potential? One option is to vary your instructional technique to best address the learning styles of your students. The more varied instructional strategies you incorporate into your lessons, the more likely you will be able to reach all your students. This technique is known to be differentiated instruction.
What is Differentiated Instruction?
“Differentiated instruction means tailoring instruction to meet individual needs whether teachers differentiate content, process, products, or the learning environment, the use of ongoing assessment and flexible grouping makes this a successful approach,” Carol Ann Tomlinson www.readingrockets.org/articles/263
Differentiated instruction is a process and it needs proper planning and preparation to start with it. At first it seems to be very difficult and taxing on the part of the teacher but if you really wanted to address the needs of struggling students and to increase their proficiency especially in Mathematics then find time to consider this option.
“Instruction begins when you, the teacher learn from the learners, put yourself in his place so that you may understand… what he learns and the way he learns and the way he understands it.
-Kiekegaard
Teachers differentiate the content, process and the product and among the students: the readiness, interest and learning profile. In using this particular technique it is very important that the teacher should prepare the following:
1. Profile of students
Diagnose students’ abilities and learning styles by reviewing students’ records like previous grades in Mathematics and learning style inventory to determine which style will be best for them.
2. Room Arrangement
Rooms should be arranged to provide workstations which can easily set up or rearranged for varied activities.
3. Materials and Resources
Provide a variety of materials, references and other resources that can be easily accessed by the students. This may include books, journals, workbooks, activity sheets, drill cards”, manipulative, handouts, instructional devices. This may also include computers and other audio/visual materials.
4. Assessment Tools and Materials
Students should be provided with varied assessments with various skill levels and learning styles. Prepare scoring rubrics for open-ended assessments and projects.
By: Yolanda B. Basi | Master Teacher I | Hermosa National High School | Hermosa, Bataan
