Differentiated Instruction is the outcome of teachers’ continuous decision-making process
1. where teachers search for academic diversity that will either strengthen or impede effective, meaningful, and efficient learning, and then
2. adjust instruction to ensure clarity, access, rigor, and relevance (CARR) for all learners.
Our approach to differentiated instruction is rooted in motivation and cognitive sciences and culturally relevant pedagogies.
Agility uses a decision making model (i.e. If-then statements) to support teachers in mentally preparing for the challenge of responding to students with a wide range of learning strengths and needs as learning unfolds (Bondie & Zusho, 2018). Seminal research by Peter Gollwitzer (1993, 1999) and a more recent research synthesis (Bieleke, Keller, & Gollwitzer, 2021) shows a relationship between articulating implementation plans (e.g. If-then plans) and goal attainment. Applying the theory from this research, “IF-THEN-SO” implementation plans for situations that may arise in the classroom may increase teachers ability to take actions consistent with their values and goals for teaching. Mental preparation such as “If a student response is X then my teacher actions will be Y” may increase teacher ability to be present, responsive, precise, and imaginative when interacting with students.
Learn more about Objectives and Learning Goals through the Well Developed Classroom blog and materials.
Learn more about Starting Positions through our Well Developed Classroom blog on Formative Assessment.
Learn more about Criteria from our routine, Must Haves and Amazing Criteria.
Learn more about Action Patterns by exploring routines and elements.
Learn more about Reflection from our Well Developed Classroom blog on Self- Regulation.
Learn how to implement individual and group learning routines that provide teachers opportunities to look and listen.
Learn more about this approach to differentiated instruction through the book (translated into Portuguese):
Bondie, R., & Zusho, A. (2018). Differentiated Instruction Made Practical: Engaging the Extremes Through Classroom Routines. Routledge.
Bondie, R., & Zusho, A. (2023). Diferenciação Pedagógica na Prática: Rotinas para Engajar Todos os Alunos. Penso Editora.