What is Differentiation?

On Dictionary.com, the medical section, differentiation is 2 a : modification of different parts of the body for performance of particular functions.

I know I'm not supposed to tell you the definition according to a dictionary, but I agree with this medical definition. Although differentiating in the classroom isn't modifying parts of the body, it is modifying parts of a lesson. Differentiation is modifying parts of a lesson to help students achieve their highest performance levels.

The point of differentiating is to modify my teaching for my students needs in order to help them reach their highest potential. There are many ways to differentiate. You can differentiate the whats which are the environment, process, content, and product. You can also differentiate the for whats which are affect, interest, learning profile, and readiness. Before I started this class, I didn't realize that I could differentiate by simply changing the environment for my students. I love that differentiating doesn't have to be big and extravagant to still be successful. As long as I am paying attention to my students needs and I am flexible with my teaching, I will help my students be successful.