While waiting for an after school meeting to begin, Carol Ann Tomlinson found herself chatting with an high school history teacher as he shared the struggle he faced to help a large population of English language learners (ELLs) who had recently arrived at his school. He spoke of how supporting these students was a new challenge for the staff, and…

Engagement doesn't just happen. As much as teachers would like it if their own fascination with content were contagious for every student, it doesn't work that way. Engagement must be planned for. A teacher discovers what's engaging in the content and designs curriculum so students discover it too. The authors profile one teacher…

Discusses making integrated instruction at the middle school level more potent by focusing on key concepts rather than on topics (e.g., systems, interdependence, change). Describes differences in curricula based on concepts and topics; defines concepts and principles for integrated instruction and what makes them effective. Compares integrated…

Discover how two of education's most powerful frameworks can team up to provide your school with a comprehensive and in-depth approach to ensure all students are learning at maximum levels. The leading experts on Differentiated Instruction and Understanding by Design explain how to connect these two approaches and use their combined power to: (1)…

Noting that teachers in mixed-ability classrooms face multiple challenges, this booklet provides teachers guidance in creating learning environments that address the diversity in learning styles typical of mixed-ability classrooms. The booklet discusses what differentiated instruction is, why it is appropriate for all learners, how to plan for and…

This article discusses how regular classroom teachers can use high level curriculum as a catalyst for identifying and nurturing gifted students. It describes the characteristics of a differentiated classroom, how differentiation might look for advanced learners, why differentiated instruction is needed for advanced learners, and how parents can…

This book offers a solution to teachers who work with students of diverse backgrounds, readiness and skill levels, and interests. The book describes a way of thinking about teaching and learning called differentiated instruction. Differentiated instruction means that teachers begin where students are rather than the front of a curriculum guide,…

This brief paper summarizes guidelines for adapting instruction for advanced learners in inclusive, mixed-ability middle school classrooms. A rationale for differentiating instruction is followed by consideration of what differentiation is and is not. Characteristics of a differentiated class are enumerated, including: instruction is concept…

In most elementary classrooms, some students struggle with learning, others perform well beyond grade-level expectations, and the rest fit somewhere in between. Within each of these categories of students, individuals also learn in a variety of ways and have different interests. To meet the needs of a diverse student population, many teachers…

Examines four key themes from a national study, focusing particularly on beliefs and practices of middle school teachers and principals as they relate to academically diverse learners. Provides insight into how middle level educators think about and address academic diversity in their schools and classrooms, and suggests areas for staff…