Differentiating+Instruction

Part of an SLPs training is in individualizing therapy. Although this can not be done in the general education classroom due to the number of students and the curriculum, teachers can differentiate instruction so that students have options when completing tasks and showing understanding and knowledge. This will increase motivation to complete the task because they are able how they would like to demonstrate understanding.

For example, a teacher may offer the children to write a short story and read it to the class or draw a picture book and tell the class the story. Or the students could be given the option of completing a book report or making a project that explains and depicts the events and characters of the book they have read. Not only does this increase motivation, it allows children to show their abilities in a way which they can best express themselves.

Teachers can use bloom's taxonomy as a reference when differentiating the complexity of tasks: Blooms Taxonomy is developed based on the notion that there are different types of learning:cognitive (knowledge), affective (growth in feelings or emotional areas and attitudes) and psychomotor (manual or physical skills). With this is mind, teachers can offer assignments for children that will apply to all areas of learning. Therefore a child who learns through psychomotor experiences is not at a disadvantage and can show his or her best skills and knowledge.

For specific guidelines in using Bloom's Taxonomy in teaching elementary aged school children visit this recent blog post: @http://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/2009/05/25/the-best-resources-for-helping-teachers-use-blooms-taxonomy-in-the-classroom/

There has been much interest in the area of technology concerning Bloom's Taxonomy. Many types of technology can be included in the curriculum in order to increase motivation, allow the children "hands on" learning and allow children to perform to the best of their abilities. The following article discusses IPad apps directly related to Bloom's Taxonomy. @http://www.edutopia.org/ipad-apps-elementary-blooms-taxomony-diane-darrow

For a detailed description of Bloom's Taxonomy visit: http://www.nwlink.com/~donclark/hrd/bloom.html