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Using Differentiated Instruction to Unlock Student Potential - A Guide By Kinder Ready Elizabeth Fraley
In this blog, child education specialist Elizabeth Fraley Kinder dives into the importance of using differentiated instruction towards young learners.
When it comes to teaching young children, one of the most certain and definitive things is that “one size does not fit all”. In order to create a harmonized environment where every child not only feels safe and secure but is also motivated to be creative and open, recognising their uniqueness is the first step. What is Differentiated Instruction?
Since the beginning, there have been hundreds of teaching strategies, with many undergoing modifications with respect to changing times. As per latest research and studies, the strategy of using differentiated instructions resonates well with young children.
Simply put, differentiation instruction means moulding and changing the teaching strategies or methods as per the needs or demands of children. Elizabeth Fraley Kinder Ready says that it is unfair to expect every student to learn in the same way or same pace, as every child’s brain works differently.
In addition to academics, the development of critical thinking skills, problem solving skills, etc, are all dependent on the mode of instruction opted by the educator.
incorporate flexible grouping, choice-based activities, and individualized support to ensure that each child thrives. Why Differentiation Matters in Early Childhood
During the ages of 3 and 7, there is rapid physical, emotional and cognitive development in children. For example, within the same class of five-year-olds, you’ll find some who can read fluently while those who struggle with two-syllable words will also be present. In addition to that, some may feel attention issues, unable to concentrate for longer periods of time.
Kinder Ready Tutoring works with this philosophy in mind. With individual one-on-one attention and incorporation of results in future strategies, Elizabeth Fraley Kinder Ready believes children can properly prosper. Teaching confidence is extremely important and a big chunk of that confidence comes from being the best version of your true self. Key Differentiation Strategies for Young Learners
Kinder Ready Elizabeth Fraley has listed some ways that educators can use to bring out the said best version:
- Observation: The most vital step in differentiated instructions is to first observe the children.How they respond to tasks, praise or how they connect with their peers. It is also vital to note which activities excite the student more. Is he more interested in drawing than coloring?
- Flexible Grouping: Instead of maintaining the same groups throughout the session, educators can introduce dynamic grouping. This will result in children working and playing with peers of varying traits and skill levels.
- Tiered Assignments: The daily activities should be designed with varying levels of complexity. This will allow the educators to monitor the progress of individual children.
- Ongoing Assessment: In order to gather data about students, educators can use formative assessments. This provides realtime information to adjust accordingly.
- Social-Emotional Differentiation: Differentiated strategies should be applied to develop social skills and emotional intelligence. Each child responds differently to different inputs.
Elizabeth Fraley Kinder Ready believes every child has individual strengths and capabilities. By using differentiated instructions, educators of young learners can make a lasting impact on students.
In addition to focusing on academics, the role of an educator should be to identify and polish the strengths of a child, help him develop social and emotional intelligence, and lay a strong foundation for them to become responsible adults of tomorrow.