differentiate
dif-uh-REN-shee-ayt
/ˌdɪf.əˈren.ʃi.eɪt/
To tailor instruction, content, or assessment methods to match varying student capabilities and learning styles.
Implies offering multiple pathways to achieve the exact same overarching learning goal.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin differentia, combining dis- (apart) and ferre (to carry), literal meaning 'to carry apart or distinguish'. Educational theorist Carol Ann Tomlinson popularized differentiated instruction in the late 20th century as a systematic framework for classroom diversity.
Word relationships
- tailor: 'Tailor' means customizing materials for a specific user, whereas 'differentiate' describes a broader instructional framework offering multiple avenues of learning.
- standardize: 'Standardize' applies one identical method or assessment to every individual regardless of differences.
Commonly confused with
- individualize: 'Differentiate' offers varied avenues within a shared group curriculum, whereas 'individualize' builds a unique, separate plan for a single student.
Word family
- differentiation (noun): The pedagogical practice of modifying instruction to suit diverse student needs.
- differentiated (adjective): Adapted or customized according to specific learner capabilities.
Collocations
- differentiate instruction
- differentiate tasks
- differentiate curriculum
- differentiate pathways
Example sentences
- "Effective teachers differentiate instruction by offering reading materials at various literacy levels." Pedagogical Planning
Memory hook
DIFFERENTIATE means making instruction DIFFERENT for varied minds. Carrying instruction down different paths to reach the same destination.
When not to use
Do not use to describe giving students random, unrelated tasks that lack a coherent educational target.
Fun facts
- Carol Ann Tomlinson's seminal research established differentiation as a cornerstone of modern educational theory.
- In calculus, differentiation has an entirely distinct mathematical meaning involving computing derivatives.
Related words
Explore more words
accommodate, differentiation, adapt, differ, discern, adaptability
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