Differentiation and Podcasts...Two of My Favorite Subjects Together!

One of the best ways to meet the needs of gifted learners in the regular education classroom is to use differentiation techniques. If you are not sure where to start, tune in to the podcast called Gifted Education, episode “Differentiating Instruction for Gifted Students.” Best selling author Laurie Westphal discusses exciting strategies for teaching gifted students in a mixed-ability classroom. Practical ways are explored to ensure that gifted students are engaged and challenged. 

After your inspiration from the podcast, you can purchase Westphal’s books with choice menus in all K-8 content areas from Prufrock press. Whether students need enrichment, choice in independent practice, or even additional academic options resulting from curriculum compacting, these books provide teachers with a complete ready-to-use resource that includes rubrics which can assess different types of products and free choice proposal forms to encourage independent study.

I have used these books for many years with success with students in grades K-8.  I highly recommend them for differentiation with students, whether in virtual learning or face-to-face learning in school. Hop on over to the podcast to learn about these great resources! 

Beth Fairchild
WATG Board Member
Conference Co-chair