Explaining Differentiated Assignments

As teachers we want to meet the needs of all of our students.  This is difficult when there are many different learning levels and styles in our classrooms.  We know that differentiated instruction works, but how do we tell parents what this actually means?  How do we explain differentiated assignments?

Our goal in the classroom is to grow all learners.  In order to do this we must meet students where they are academically and emotionally. To start a conversation with parents we begin by telling them we are assessing their children continuously.  It will be through conferencing, written tests, homework assignments, class assignments, and anecdotal notes.

Tell parents that based on the feedback we are constantly receiving through our assessments, we tailor their children’s assignments to fit their needs.  This may mean in math all students have two word problems for homework.  However the level of difficulty each child receives is based on her understanding of the content.  In this way struggling students can be challenged yet successful as can grade level and above grade level students.  Also, we tailor assignments by compacting the curriculum.  In other words we find out what a student knows and then exempt her from working on concepts she has already mastered.  For example in language arts if a student shows a complete understanding of spelling patterns, he may go on to work with word derivations.

We need to make sure parents know we will use a variety of teaching methods during instruction.  For instance, students will work individually, in small groups, and in whole group.  Sometimes these groups are based on academic need and sometimes on learning style.  Parents need to understand their children will not be working with the same students all the time.

Whatever method or methods of differentiation we use, educating parents on the how and why is essential to their understanding of how their children are learning.  Helping parents see how we are growing their children enables us to better work as a team.

“Education is a shared commitment between dedicated teachers, motivated students and enthusiastic parents with high expectations.”