One of the most common myths about "high ability", "above average", and gifted students is that they, "are smart enough and can do fine on their own; they don't need differentiation". First, not all gifted and bright students are gifted in the same way or have the same academic strengths/weaknesses. Second, if not correctly "challenged" these students will more often than not, become bored, frustrated, and essentially stop growing academically.

As educators, parents, administrators, and friends, we need to meet each student "where they are" and teach them from that point. Hence, "One Size of Teaching Does Not Fit All". :)

Differentiation usually includes one or more of the following:

• Content (what students learn)
• Process (how students learn)
• Product (the end result of student learning)

Differentiate means "make DIFFERENT", not "make MORE". :)

• What is a good starting point? PRE-TEST, PRE-Test: This will let you know who is lost, needs help, got it, or maybe could teach the lesson for you! HA (Dr. Bice's comment).
  
• Then what? Base your next few days or weeks lessons from the results of the Pre-Test (Group work, Choice Board of work -students LOVE this- web-sites to challenge- Products to show they nailed the objective)
• Okay, I have my groups divided based on needs, now what? If you are still reading this newsletter, great! That is where I come in! I will find strategies, curriculum, technology, etc... and personalize it to help You meet the needs of your G.T. or high ability students:) If you would like for me to come help you, I will! E-mail or call me and we will figure out a plan!

Email: cgriffin@scs.k12.al.us
Website: www.scs.k12.al.us
Location: L E Willson Elementary School, East 31st Street, Sheffield, AL, United States
Phone: 256-386-5730