Differentiating Instruction for Special Needs
Vary Teaching Styles to Meet the Requirements of Every Student
May 29, 2009
Diversity exists in every classroom, and expecting all students to learn in the same way would be a mistake. Using one teaching method will probably not satisfy the needs of all students, and indeed may eventually cause children with special needs and/or learning disabilities to become frustrated, confused, and left behind. Differentiating instruction can help all students by spotlighting their strengths, interests, and recognizing individual levels of learning.
Identify Individual Learning Styles and Adjust Assignments
Keep a diary or log of students in the classroom and determine their most effective learning styles. Many children are visual learners, for example, while others will learn better through hands on projects or audio presentations. Students with learning disabilities may have difficulty with one or more of these learning styles. Present each new unit or idea in multiple ways. Assign individual projects and provide homework choices based on their best way of learning.
One homework idea may be to allow students to learn their weekly spelling words by choosing from a list of assignments. This list may include writing the words and counting vowels and consonants for students that enjoy math, or drawing a picture illustrating each word for visual learners. Additionally, have hands on learners find objects in their homes that each word describes.
Determine and Incorporate Individual Interests
Ask students to write, say, or draw several of their favorite things. Display a student bio chart on a classroom bulletin board. Take turns incorporating these interests into the lesson plans throughout the year. This will help students to stay motivated, while also teaching them to respect one another’s passions. Interest instruction will benefit all children with special needs, especially those on the autism spectrum who tend to have intense interests but have difficulty socializing.
Use Computers and Computerized Instruction
Computer technology is a windfall for teachers. Games, leveled readers, and practice tests that adjust to a student’s level of understanding can effectively reinforce any topic being taught. Voice recognition software can help students with physical disabilities, while computerized aids such as magnifiers can help students with low vision. Typing can help autistic children who have difficulty writing or those with cerebral palsy and other physically inhibitive disorders.
Modify Assignment Requirements to Meet Special Needs
Children can be given the opportunity to showcase their strengths and meet academic requirements if assignments both in the classroom and at home are adjusted for their particular needs. Reducing writing requirements or allowing computer use, lengthening deadlines, and allowing oral presentations to be of shorter duration or more visually oriented are all possible ways to keep children participating and engaged in learning.
Differentiating instruction may seem like a daunting task for teachers with a diverse group of learners. However, by documenting each student’s learning style, strengths, and interests, and adjusting lessons accordingly, teachers will see a higher level of achievement in students with learning disabilities and special needs, and most likely all other students as well.
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