Classification Graphic Organizers can help to Differentiate Instruction
Classification graphic organizers are used to classify content or information into categories. This type of graphic organizer is used often in the Sciences, however it can also be used in other subjects as well.
Graphic organizers can help teachers differentiate instruction in two different ways:
- Multiple Intelligence Learning Styles: Classification graphic organizers use both the spatial multiple intelligence learning style, due to the visual it creates, and the logical multiple intelligence learning style, through the organization of ideas or facts. Teachers can increase the spatial multiple intelligence learning style that is used by allowing students to draw the content instead of writing it or drawing it to reinforce the content along with the written text. Teachers can differentiate instruction using the multiple intelligence learning styles by using classification graphic organizers as well as other multiple intelligence learning styles such as linguistic, kinesthetic, musical, interpersonal and intrapersonal to teach the content. In my experience as a teacher, students seem to be more interested in the content when the multiple intelligence learning styles are used.
- Leveling: Graphic organizers are often stated as accommodations for SPED and ELL students because content can be simplified and clarified through groups and lists. One way to level a classification graphic organizer is the amount of content already typed or written in before the student receives it. Students who are considered advanced will have the least amount of content in their classification graphic organizer so as to encourage as much critical thinking as possible.
The same content must be used in order to differentiate instruction. A great resource for graphic organizers and differentiated instruction is http://www.hollerformastro.com. This website includes text boxes in all parts of their graphic organizers so that inputting content is fast and easy. They have many other ideas for differentiated instruction.
Written by,
Kasha Mastrodomenico
Holler for Mastro LLC Differentiated Instruction
http://www.hollerformastro.com
http://www.socialstudiesdifferentiatedinstruction.com
http://www.differentiatedinstructionactivities.com
http://www.multiple-intelligence.net
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