Figuring out differentiation and what it actually looks like in a classroom setting is not something that just comes naturally. Differentiated instruction strategies are rarely taught or modeled effectively in educator prep programs.
During my student teaching experience, I was given the suggestion of filling in some blanks on students’ papers to get them started with the assignment. This seemed like a good idea in theory.
When it came time to implement this strategy, all my students were sitting on the carpet and could see each others’ papers. This quickly became a game of “Why is my paper different from their paper?”.
Let’s just say… this lesson crashed and burned before my eyes.
I’ve done a lot of learning and reflecting since then. That whole scenario (among many other failed lessons) made me realize that differentiated instruction strategies need to have two main qualities.
They need to be simple and subtle.
For example, instead of having pre-filled worksheets, I will now check in with students individually and highlight questions or problems I want them to focus on.
This strategy allows the students who take longer to complete their work to feel less overwhelmed by the amount of work that is in front of them. It takes me all of 30 seconds to make this accommodation and the rest of the class is none the wiser.
Keep reading for some additional differentiated instruction strategies that you can try in your high school math classroom.
1. Experiment with different ways to group students
I love using randomized groups to get my students talking and getting support from different people.
2. Try pre-teaching or reviewing in small groups
Pulling small groups to meet students where they are is one of my favorite ways to make sure all of my students are getting the support they need.
You have the opportunity to walk them through processes and give them feedback in real time that you don't typically have the time to do during regular instruction.
3. Provide students with choices
You can give your students the option of how they want to practice a skill. Some students may want to sit at their desk and crank out a worksheet, while others may want to sit on the floor with a clipboard and complete a task card activity.
4. Give alternative assessments
Math class is challenging for many students and huge tests are intimidating. Try giving your students a project based assessment or real world application. These tasks are a bit more challenging, but they have the comfort of using their notes to work through the problems.
5. Provide differentiated activities
Most of my resources have a differentiated option for students who need more prompting questions and support. I would suggest using these resources on a class by class basis.
If you have one class that is struggling with a specific topic, don't be afraid to give them an assignment that is a bit more scaffolded. Check out some of my go-to differentiated resources for Algebra 1 ↓
Pingback: Before You Assign Math Homework, Ask These 3 Essential Questions
Pingback: 5 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Special Education Paraprofessionals
Pingback: 7 Fun Hands-On Math Activities for Your High School Classroom