Original task More complex More basic Tiered Assignments

Original task More complex More basic Tiered Assignments Critical knowledge or skill

Tiered assignments are the most prescriptive, learner-responsive, and sophisticated strategy for differentiation. -Heacox

Use a tiered assignment when students differ on. . . • • Developmental stages Readiness for learning Learning preferences Amount of structure or support Amount of time, instruction or practice Reading skill or prior knowledge Whether instruction or a task is necessary or appropriate

Use a tiered assignment when you know. . . • something will be too easy or hard for some students • some students need more basic work or others need more complex work

Tomlinson’s Equalizer Foundational Transformative Concrete Abstract Simple Complex Fewer Facts Multi-Faceted Smaller Leap Greater Leap More Structured More Open Clearly Defined Problems Fuzzy Problems Less Independence Greater Independence Slower Pace Quicker Pace

Steps in Designing Tiered Assignments

What makes a well-designed tiered assignment?

Exploration • In self-selected groups… – Explore the tiered lessons that Strickland has provided – Share examples of what you have done – Discuss what options texts may include (may not always be the best)

Lesson Planning • Working alone or together, create a tiered lesson plan using the worksheet at the back of your packet • Start with the KUD