Why you should differentiate your tasks in lessons
In any learning environment, whether it be a traditional classroom or an online setting, it is crucial to differentiate tasks to meet the individual needs of students.
What does it mean to differentiate tasks?
Differentiating tasks means tailoring activities and assignments to match the learning style, ability level, and interests of each student. By doing so, teachers can create a more inclusive classroom environment that promotes learning and success for all students.
Why is it important to do this?
The importance of differentiating tasks in classes can be seen in several ways. Firstly, it allows students to work at their own pace. When students are given tasks that are too difficult or too easy for them, they may become disengaged or frustrated.
However, by providing tasks that match their ability level, students are more likely to be challenged and motivated to learn. For example, a student who excels in math may be given more complex problems to solve, while a student who struggles in math may be given simpler problems to solve.
Good teaching is all about making decisions.
Help students feel connected to their learning
Differentiating tasks can help students feel more connected to their learning. When tasks are tailored to students' interests, they are more likely to feel invested in their work and see the relevance of what they are learning. For example, a student who loves sports may be given a writing assignment about their favorite athlete, while a student who loves music may be asked to analyse a song lyric. These tasks not only cater to their interests, but also help students see the value of what they are learning.
Every student has different learning needs
Differentiating tasks can help students with diverse learning needs. For example, students with learning disabilities may need tasks that are modified or adapted to meet their specific needs. Providing these students with tasks that are challenging but achievable can help build their confidence and self-esteem. Similarly, students with advanced learning abilities can benefit from tasks that allow them to extend their learning beyond the curriculum.
An inclusive classroom
By differentiating your tasks, you can help promote a more inclusive classroom environment. By acknowledging the individual differences and strengths of each student, teachers can create a more welcoming and supportive learning environment. When students feel valued and included, they are more likely to participate and engage in their learning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, differentiating tasks in classes is an important practice for promoting student learning and success. By tailoring tasks to match students' ability level, interests, and learning needs, teachers can create a more inclusive and engaging classroom environment. Differentiation promotes a sense of belonging, connectedness, and achievement for all students, regardless of their differences.
by Stuart Allen
5 Songs to Use to Teach Past Simple
How to stop children being naughty in classes
7 tips for nailing a classroom observation
How to teach reading in TEFL classes
Differentiated stations: a learning strategy (VIDEO)
The 180-Hour Higher Certificate in TESOL contains 20 awesome units to help teachers be the very best in the classroom. You will not find a better globally-accredited TESOL course anywhere.
Unit 14 is all about assessment and differentiation. You'll learn why assessment and differentiation is important and how you can use the strategies we teach you to help your learners speak English far more effectively. We make you BETTER!
Get 20% OFF the cost of the course with the voucher below. Simply save the voucher to your phone, add us (WeChat: TEFL_Lemon), and then show the voucher when buying the course. You may send the voucher to friends wanting to get qualified.
Purchase the full TESOL course, only 1440RMB! (Usual price 1800RMB).
Long-press to follow this channel ... thank you!
