Math Differentiation in a Nutshell Template

Elementary Example

With the school year just around the corner, we will be facing a whole new class of students with different readiness levels. How do we reach each student? Are there multiple entry points of learning so we can hook all our students? Do we have a list of resources/ideas to address those students who are below target, on target, and above target?

Middle School Example

This is a template I have used in the past to help brainstorm and create a resource for differentiation in the math classroom. You can see a few different examples and the variety of resources listed. Two of the templates were compiled by teachers in my district during some differentiation training I facilitated. One was completed at the elementary buildings. Currently, our math program is Trailblazers. Another one was completed at the middle school. Currently, our math program for grades 6-8 is Connected Mathematics 2 (CMP2). Once this template is filled out, it becomes a friendly reminder of "go to" resources when trying to address the various readiness levels of our students. This template certainly does not have to be completed by buildings. The benefit of this, however, is there are many teachers contributing ideas. Collaboration is a powerful tool!

Classroom Example

For personal classroom use, the template can be filled out for a particular concept. See my 3rd grade example using Common Core standard 3.MD.1. You can see how the Common Core standard is included. Specific activities/resources to address different readiness levels are listed as well. The key to any learning opportunity is closure/synthesis. Notice how I included "I can..." statements at the bottom of my 3rd grade template.

Some of the ideas/math tools listed on my 3rd grade differentiation template on time can be found pinned on my Pinterest. Click here and preview some of my boards. At this time, I have devoted Pinterest entirely to math! Need some ideas, find a board that relates to your topic of study and find resources you can use with your students to address their various readiness levels! It is amazing the resources that are out there that teachers are willing to share.

Grab a copy of any of these templates by clicking on the image or images of choice!

Blank Template

Math "Scrunchie" (aka Cootie Catcher) for Adding and Subtracting Time

Use this math "scrunchie" as a way to reinforce adding and subtracting time. I use the term "scrunchie" because we really aren't telling fortunes nor catching cooties when we use these in the math classroom :)! "Scrunchie" actually comes from the UK and that's what my students do when they use this foldable...they scrunch it together. Creative Teaching Press has published books using math cootie catchers to reinforce skills/concepts by grade level. The authors are Sharon L. Apichella and Mary D. Sutton. Using the one on time from the book and designing my own allowed me to address the different readiness levels of my students. I designed this "scrunchie" with a Common Core standard in mind for 3rd grade. When differentiating in the classroom, it is important that students have instruction and tools at their readiness levels. This kinesthetic and novel approach to reviewing skills can help to solidify understanding! Its self-checking nature provides students with immediate feedback. Click on the image below to grab a copy!