Differentiated Instruction

At JKCS, we believe every student is uniquely and wonderfully made.

In each classroom, students have a variety of abilities, interests, and needs. Our teachers use differentiated instruction to ensure all students are learning new material at their own pace and ability. Differentiated instruction also offers students different ways to explore new subjects and demonstrate learning.

Teachers assess the strengths and needs of each student. Lessons are designed based on student learning styles, interests, and abilities. Work may be done independently, in small groups comprised of students with similar interests and abilities, or in small groups of mixed interest. Students are regularly assessed to ensure learning and progress are taking place.  

It is important that lessons are differentiated so that the learning needs of all students are being met. For example, in language arts, the entire classroom receives instruction, and then the students receive time for independent reading and writing assignments while teachers provide focused attention to teach individuals or small groups of students.

To support Differentiated Instruction at JKCS, our Differentiated Instruction Assistants (DIA) provide support to the classroom teacher. The DIA and classroom teacher function as a team to support differentiated instruction.

Levelled reading is another example of how differentiation is used in the classroom. Students are matched with books that meet their reading level. As their reading level improves, they are introduced to increasingly complex books.

Differentiated instruction is the key to ensuring every student experiences academic growth. It also helps us ignite wonder for God, neighbour, and creation in the minds of our students.