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Knowing students learn differently |
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Thursday, 19 June 2008 |
 Plymouth High School teacher Josh Martin studies advanced instruction in a teaching method, “Differentiated Classrooms,” offering alternative opportunities for students to learn. Pilot Photo/Carol Anders By Carol Anders
Staff Writer
PLYMOUTH — Teachers and administrators in the Plymouth Schools have been given an opportunity to receive advanced instruction in a teaching method that will be incorporated in all of the classrooms within the next few years.
Last week, instructors Sarah McKenzie and Rachell Davis taught 24 staff members on the use of “differentiated classrooms.”
They are two of the six teachers in the system who have been presenting the information.
Superintendent Dan Tyree said, ”We are in the middle of what will be a three-year process.”
A differentiated classroom is not a new concept. Teachers have been modifying materials for many years to fit the needs of their students. However, since assessments of students, teachers, administrators, school corporations and the State of Indiana Department of Education are based on standards, administrators in Plymouth’s system felt it prudent to offer specific instruction to all staff. The instruction will also help teachers collaborate more effectively.
Differentiated instruction allows for the different ways that an individual student takes in, works with, or learns information.
Differentiation is based on acceleration, enrichment, extensions and remediation. Acceleration would allow students to study the material in a particular class at a faster pace and /or a high grade level if they have demonstrated proficiency of the regular work.
Enrichment allows teachers to bring in areas or topics that are not included in the regular curriculum for students who want to study in greater depth.
For those students who can complete the regular assignment quickly, extensions can be incorporated to provide additional challenges.
Remediation is used when students have a gap in their skills that needs to be addressed before they can move on to more complex work.
Josh Martin, language arts teacher at Plymouth High School (PHS), said. “The administrators and the instructors are giving us tools and strategies to make school meaningful for all students.”
PHS Business teacher Chad Miley has been impressed with the differentiated classroom instruction as well. He said, “I took 16 classes at Ball State in education, but this one is the best I’ve been through. I’ve discovered actual ways to help the students learn.” Miley added, “It has reinforced for us the impact that we have on students.”
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Last Updated ( Friday, 20 June 2008 )
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