As part of my IDP, I will review some bibliography on differentiation and provide you with valuable activities I have tested in my own classroom. This book by author Betty Hollas, works perfectly well for those of us who are approaching, and probably gaining more understanding of DI. As a result of reading the first couple of pages, you will realize, that you are not an old-fashioned teacher, but rather a highly quaified professional who has been using DI without even noticing it. I loved the feeling that comes with the clear explanation of the concept of DI that Mrs. Hollas shares in her book, because I realized I've been doing it for almost 10 years of teaching!
The initial thesis that differentiating in a whole-group setting might seem an oxymoron, brought me back to the question of what DI really was. Can we really teach the whole class and still differentiate? Can we reach every single student and learning style without even thinking of cumbersome loads of work, preparation, centers and rotations? In the book, Betty Hollas introduces us to the idea that it is actually very possible and very effective to approach DI in a whole-group situation. Although it may not be the usual and day-to-day kind of work you'd do, this approach could provide us with great opportunities for developing understanding, deepening concepts and skills, engaging students and bringing your teaching to life.
