Differentiated Instruction... what's that?

"The definition begins with this: Equal education is not all students getting the same, but all students getting what they need. Approaching all learners the same academically doesn't work. We have to start where each child is in his learning process in order to authentically meet his academic needs and help him grow."  (Alber, 2010, http://www.edutopia.org/blog/differentiated-instruction-definition-strategies-alber)  One way that we differentiate in writing class is through spelling.  Our new spelling series, Spelling Connections by Zane-Bloser publishing, is designed to advance students individual needs and spelling proficiency through leveled lists.  Beginning with Unit 4, our students will be leveled, hopefully allowing for each child to feel successful by test time.  We will have a CIRCLE list, a DIAMOND list, and a SQUARE list.  Each of these spelling lists will promote the same spelling patterns, but contain different words.  Please look for the Unit 4 spelling list to come home on Friday, Sept. 9th.  In the top right hand corner of the paper, next to the unit number, you will see a circle, diamond, or square, which indicates their placement.  For those of you using http://www.spellingcity.com/ , you will see THREE different lists, clearly labeled: circle, diamond, and square, for each unit.  Please make sure your child chooses the correct list when working online.  If you have any questions regarding the leveled lists, please do not hesitate to contact me. 

Looking Ahead:

Next week, we will continue looking at Expository writing.  We have been working our way through the Writing Process, explaining to our readers; "how-to" do our favorite activity.  We have completed the Prewriting step, and though some of us are finished Drafting our essay, many of us need more time next week.  Once our drafts are complete, we will work together with a partner, on the Revising step, looking for ways in which we can add/combine/delete ideas within our essay for a more coherent piece.

While working on our Expository essays, we will be taking a closer look at the 6-Traits of Writing, another important part of our writing class.  For a better understanding of the 6-Traits, please go to the "Parent Resource" section to the right of this blog, and click on "The 6-Traits of Writing".  Hope everyone has a great week-end!