The Invitation to Be Part of a Vision

Recognize the framework for coming together in a diverse classroom.

Determine that students are individuals and that they learn in different ways at different starting points.

The common belief system: That students will question if they saw that other students had different books or activities.

The differentiated belief system is that students…
1) Enter at different starting points. 2) Bring different experiences in which they can connect new learning. 3) Work at different speeds. 4) Process information in a variety of ways. 5) Require different support systems.

Who are you as learners?

Given the differences we see, how should I teach you?

If our classroom is going to work for all of us, what will it be like? How can I learn more about your starting points, interests, and best ways of learning?

If we have a differentiated classroom, can it be fair?

What will success mean in this class?

Recognize that teachers care about them as people.

Begin to share a bit about themselves.

Consider the similarities and differences among classmates.

Think about what it would mean to have a classroom designed to work for all kinds of learners.