Fair Isn’t Always Equal Chapter 1: The Differentiated Instruction Mind-set: Rationale and Definition

                In chapter one of Fair Isn’t Always Equal, Wormeli goes into an in depth discussion about differentiated instruction and how it is important in the classroom. I found this chapter to be quite intriguing. I did not realize how much differentiated learning really entailed. I would have never imagined that the way desks are set up, the rephrasing of ideas, the giving you more time or choice on an assignment, and a teacher being physically closer to a student to keep their attention were all forms of differentiated instruction. This shows me that differentiated learning is everywhere in the classroom. Wormeli then went on to discuss how differentiation is not a crutch but more of a help to prepare students for all that comes their way. He reassures educators that it is good to use differentiated instruction through out a student’s time at school because it benefits them. He tells the readers about how a “lack of differentiated instruction puts competence in jeopardy and passing graduation assessments in question” (7).  Students with a lack of differentiated instruction are most likely the students who are more apt to not graduate from school. This shows how positive of an influence differentiated learning has on a student.

            This chapter had many great ideas I could see myself using in my classroom. For instance having my students who understand the information is available to help those who do not. Also giving my students the handout of what to do when the teacher is unavailable to help. Knowing that differentiated learning is not individualized instruction makes me feel better since I know that it means I don’t have to cater to each student’s independent needs. This will all help make my classroom more differentiated for my students, which is very beneficial to students.