Differentiated Instruction for Kindergarten

1. Differentiated Instruction in Kindergarten Donna Arvay

2. What is Differentiated Instruction? An approach to teaching and learning that gives students multiple options for taking in information and making sense of ideas.

3. Why Differentiate Instruction? All students can succeed in school. All students should have the same opportunities as their peers. Each student learns differently. Students need to master concepts before moving to another one. Quality, not quantity instruction Student centered classrooms Different approaches to what students learn, how they learn it, and how they demonstrate what they’ve learned.

4. Why is it important in Kindergarten? Kindergartners enter school at various levels. Kindergarten is a developmental age. Some students learn the material the first time. Others need to practice the concept multiple times before they master a concept. Kindergartners have various interests, needs and learning styles. Some learn best during group time. Some students learn best using manipulatives and applying concepts individually or in small groups. Students are free to explore books based on the theme or their interests. Working together to complete a puzzle. Cooking and using scented playdoughis educational and fun.

6. Small group centers focusing on concept

8. Kindergarten Products Students demonstrate their understanding of concepts Students are observed throughout the school day. Use of computer software and websites that engage the student at his or her appropriate skill level. Use of manipulatives to demonstrate concepts and complete assignments. Answering questions during group instruction. Students produce knowledge during individual assessment. Students are assessed individually on ELA and Math skills. Demonstrate what they know confidently without distraction. Individual assessments are ongoing. Use same assessment, but use different colors to show growth.

10. Morning work using paper, pencil, and fine motor skills

11. During centers playing games (bingo)

12. Using manipulatives

13. Writing and tracing using sand, playdough, markers, and chalk

14. Singing songs

16. Final Thoughts on Differentiated Instruction DI is Student Centered Instruction. Students apply themselves to master each concept. Most of their learning is hands-on. A DI classroom allows students to learn, grow, succeed, and feel accepted in school. The goal of DI is to make certain all students grow in all key skills and move on from their starting point. The teacher observes students’ knowledge levels, interests, and learning styles and creates lessons to fit the needs of the class.