Differentiated Instruction

“To differentiate instruction is to recognize students varying background knowledge, readiness, language, preferences in learning, interests; and to react responsively. Differentiated instruction is a process to approach teaching and learning for students of differing abilities in the same class. The intent of differentiating instruction is to maximize each student's growth and individual success by meeting each student where he or she is, and assisting in the learning process' (Hall, Tracy. Differentiated Instruction and Implications for UDL Implementation. http://www.aim.cast.org/learn/historyarchive/backgroundpapers/differentiated_instruction)


  • Definition:
    "A school district may include integrated co-teaching services in its continuum of services. Integrated co-teaching services means the provision of specially designed instruction and academic instruction provided to a group of students with disabilities and non-disabled students' (NYSED.org, Part 200, p.101).
  • Co-teaching is another instructional strategy allowing educators to differentiate learning for students.