does differentiated instruction have a positive correlation with improved reading scores?

Answer 1

Not in my school!

We just started differentiating and my grade HATES IT!

We have referred all the students with reading difficulties to the Reading Specialist to "take care of".

In our reading class, they are not getting what they need. It is ridiculous!

DIFFERENTIATION DOES NOT WORK!

Answer 2

Differentiated instruction generally creates positive improvement for learners regardless of the area being taught, as by doing this, you are actively engaging students in a form of learning that suits their developmental levels as well as learning styles and needs.

If you really want to improve reading scores, teach children to read for enjoyment...you would be surprised at how many don't know that reading for fun is a reason to read. The more they read the more they improve their skills.

***Keep in mind that differentiation can mean something as little as changing the amoung of the work load. ---This would be impacted by how you set up your classroom guidelines to keep the students/parents from crying "that's not fair." I start the year by trying to explaining and getting the students/parents to understand that fair doesn't mean "the same" it means what is best for each child.

Answer 3

Want to hear a burned-out teacher's answer? D.I. makes you do three times the work for the same low pay. It used to be called "tracking" and kids would go to different classes depending on their "level." Now they want you to have a separate lesson, activity, or assignment for each level of kid in one class, yet make sure you don't make anyone feel inferior or superior when they figure out they have different things! Sigh...