As part of a comprehensive literacy program, teachers recognized the importance of providing explicit and systematic instruction in phonics.  Rich literature is valued and provides an essential model for communication and expression of thought.  When students engage with rich literature, they expand their understanding of 
Read more
In our academic courses, new vocabulary is coming at us all the time. It can be hard to keep up with all of the new words, and to sort through them in a meaningful way. In this article, you’ll learn how to keep an effective 
Read more
Differentiated instruction is more than a strategy. It is a way of thinking about teaching and learning that utilizes evidence-based practices that meets students where they are at. If you have ever heard yourself saying, “I tried differentiation and it did not work” or “I 
Read more
Specific Strategies to Differentiate Mathematics Instruction: Design Open Questions  Turning around a Question: Instead of giving the question- a teacher provides the answer and asks for the question.  Asking for Similarities and Differences: Teacher chooses two items (shapes, numbers, graphs etc) and asks students how 
Read more
Assistive technology is any device, software, or equipment that helps people work around their learning challenges. When we think of assistive technology for students with learning difficulties, we often think of high-tech devices such as Chromebooks, computers, and iPads. In fact, sometimes high tech solutions 
Read more
How to Approach Differentiating Instruction in Mathematics:  Focus Instruction on Key Concepts One of the most effective ways to differentiate in mathematics is to focus on the key concepts (*big ideas) rather than a narrow, specific curricular outcome. To do this try to cluster specific 
Read more
What is Differentiation? It is an organized yet flexible way of proactively adjusting teaching and learning to meet kids where they are and help them to achieve maximum growth as learners. (Tomlinson, 1999) Differentiation in Math Should:  Focus of instruction must be on key mathematical 
Read more