Context
Lovett differentiates at a macro-level through skill-level classes, but also goes a step beyond differentiated instruction at the class level by differentiating instruction within each class as well. Station rotation is a common approach to differentiation for Lovett teachers, especially those in the 2-3 learning pod. Teachers identify students with similar needs and provide them with targeted small group instruction while other small groups are working independently, collaboratively, online, or with another educator. This depends on how the teacher structures the rotation.
In the 4-5 pods, more differentiation happens at the individual level. Students work on a range of skills and concepts throughout the class, progressing at different paces. 4-5 educators are able to identify trends and create targeted instruction opportunities for small groups, while other students are working based on their individual preferences.
(This Approach is Illustrative of LEAP's Learner Focused Strategies)
Student Does
- Provides feedback on academic progress and needs through conferencing and assessments.
Rotates instructional stations based on teacher groupings in 2-3 pods.
Chooses what they are working on (from a list) and how best to progress through it, and receive targeted instruction as needed in 4-5 pods.
Teacher Does
Identifies student needs through weekly, and sometimes daily, data analysis and continual class observation within each grade band team.
Groups 2-3 pod students based on need and provides targeted instruction via the station rotation model.
Provides 4-5 pod students with targeted instruction in small groups while the rest of the class works based on their individual preferences.
Differentiates types of instruction for 2-3 and 4-5 pod students to offer multiple learning modalities, including: visual, tactile, auditory, and interactive.
Offers increased differentiation to 2-3 and 4-5 pod students which incorporates student interests and needs. (Student interests are usually identified in conferences and Learner Profiles, so teachers might see that a group of students is interested in sports and look for resources that are sports themed).
Technology Does
- Provides data for teachers and students to better understand needs.
Provides a shared platform through Learner Profiles for students and teachers to discuss student progress and needs.
Strategy Resources
Differentiating Instruction by Modality at Lovett
Teachers at Lovett discuss how they differentiate instruction by learning modalities to meet student need. Learn More
Lovett Learner Profile Sample
Lovett educators use learner profiles, incorporating both academic and personal needs, to better know their... Learn More
Lovett Schedule: 4th and 5th Grade
This document shows the schedule for Lovett students in the 4th/5th grade band. Math blocks... Learn More
Lovett Sample Lexia Data
Lovett educators monitor student progress in online programs. This is an example of a data... Learn More
Lovett Student Reflection- 3-2-1 Checkout
This is an example of a document educators at Lovett use to better understand how... Learn More
Lovett Timeline Graphic Organizer
One of the many graphic organizers Lovett allows their students to choose from as a... Learn More
Lovett Summary Graphic Organizer
One of the many graphic organizers Lovett allows their students to choose from as a... Learn More
Lovett Story Map Graphic Organizer
One of the many graphic organizers Lovett allows their students to choose from as a... Learn More
Lovett Cause and Effect Graphic Organizer
One of the many graphic organizers Lovett allows their students to choose from as a... Learn More
Dynamically re-group based on formative assessment
This strategy, created by Unlocking Time, captures how schools utilize formative assessment data to re-group... Learn More