12 Non-negotiables of Defensible Differentiated Instruction

What is differentiated instruction (DI) according to Carol Ann Tomlinson, professor of education at University of Virginia?

“Differentiation is teaching with planned responsiveness to learner needs in order to ensure maximum growth of each learner in — and hopefully beyond — essential learning outcomes.”

12 Non-negotiables of Defensible DI:

1. Teacher-kid connections
2. An environment that is a catalyst for learning
3. A sense of community in the classroom
4. Curriculum focused on students understanding for all students
5. Persistent assessment to inform teaching and learning
6. Shared responsibility for the classroom
7. Respectful tasks for each student
8. Flexible grouping
9. Attention to student readiness, interest and learning profile
10. Modification of content, process, product, affect, and learning environment to address student needs
11. Teaching up
12. Routines that support flexibility