Differentiated Instruction

Student and TeacherJunior School teachers differentiate instruction, meeting children where they are and taking them forward. Each student is assessed to find out his or her needs as an individual learner. Once those needs are identified, students with similar needs are grouped together. The small group setting facilitates students interacting more constructively and enhances the teacher’s ability to offer individual assistance. For example:

  • It allows a teacher to challenge a group of students who are ready for more advanced work.
  • It gives a teacher more time to conference with each student and check in with students who need a bit more help or reassurance.
  • For a student with attention issues, a small group provides fewer distractions and allows the teacher to better provide any individual accommodations.
  • It's easier for a student to share ideas and have in-depth discussions in a small group than a large one.
  • A student who is shy or has less self-confidence is more likely to share in a small group than a large one.