Beyond Differentiated Instruction, April/2010

"This guide through the ten steps of implementing differentiated instruction is an invaluable resource for providing meaningful curriculum to ensure every student is learning."
—Donnajo Smith, Teacher and Program Specialist for Gifted
Bureau of Curriculum and Instruction, Florida Department of Education

"In an easy-to-read format, O'Meara outlines how teachers can structure their assessment, planning, and instructional practices to help all students invest in their learning."
—Kimberly McAfee, Third-Grade Teacher
B.D. Gullett Elementary School, Bradenton, FL

I know I should differentiate instruction, but how do I actually do it in my classroom?

Differentiated instruction focuses on helping all students learn and achieve. This invaluable book goes beyond the theory of differentiated instruction to actual classroom practice, showing teachers step-by-step how they can successfully put differentiation into action to create an empowering learning environment for every child.

Author Jodi O’Meara presents a 10-step approach to differentiating instruction, supported by realistic strategies and manageable techniques that are easily adaptable for any K–12 student. This resource includes:

1. A guided, step-by-step framework for creating an effective differentiated instruction program
2. Vivid case studies illustrating the how-to's of differentiated instruction, from planning through implementation and assessment
3. Recommendations for appropriately structuring the pace and flow of instruction
4. Guidance on when to use tiered instruction and accommodations, including the relationship between differentiation and Response to Intervention (RTI)
5. Classroom-ready templates, resources, and tools for each step of the process

Discover how differentiated instruction can help your students master curriculum fundamentals and benefit from learning that lasts!

About The Author:
Jodi O’Meara is a curriculum specialist for students with special needs and a professional developer for educators and administrators. She has presented at state, national and international conferences. With over 15 years experience as a teacher and administrator of general education, special education and gifted education, she recognizes the diverse needs of students and teachers. Additionally, she is a certified life skills coach and provides guidance for leadership in business and education through her own company, Body and Mind Coaching and Consulting. O'Meara specializes in professional development in the areas of differentiated instruction for students with special needs as well as students identified as gifted. She has also been involved with related projects and presentations such as Response to Intervention. She was a co-writer of the Frameworks for Gifted Learners for the state of Florida as well as the Access Points which align standards for students with significant disabilities to general education standards. She is a former president of the Florida Association for Gifted and is on the Board of Directors for the Family Network on Disabilities in her local area. O'Meara believes that teachers can change the lives of people more effectively than any other professionals. She is strongly committed to supporting teachers in efforts to inspire their students.