This website provides a clear and concise definition of differentiated instruction. In addition, this website goes through the history, and provides ways to differentiate instruction through content, process, and product. It also weighs in on the pros and cons of differentiated instruction as well.

One part I enjoyed reading was how to differentiate instruction through learning environments. “The conditions for optimal learning include both physical and psychological elements. A flexible classroom layout is key, incorporating various types of furniture and arrangements to support both individual and group work. Psychologically speaking, teachers should use classroom management techniques that support a safe and supportive learning environment.”

Some examples of differentiating the environment include:

• Break some students into reading groups to discuss the assignment
• Allow students to read individually if preferred
• When students are given more options on how they can learn material, they take on more responsibility for their own learning
• Differentiated instruction requires more work during lesson planning, and many teachers struggle to find the extra time in their schedule
• Students appear to be more engaged in learning, and there are reportedly fewer discipline problems in classrooms where teachers provide differentiated lessons

Weselby, Cathy. October 1, 2014 (Updated January 6, 2016). http://education.cu-portland.edu/blog/teaching-strategies/examples-of-differentiated-instruction/. Retrieved March 6, 2016.