As parents, we all want our children to have the best possible education, and one of the most effective ways for teachers to provide this is through differentiation. Differentiation means tailoring instruction to meet the unique needs and interests of each student, and it can take many forms.

First, let's define differentiation. Differentiation is a teaching approach that recognises that students have different strengths, interests, and learning styles. By adjusting instruction to meet these differences, teachers can help all boys achieve their full potential. In a differentiated classroom, students are given tasks and assignments that are challenging but achievable, and they are supported in their learning with the right level of scaffolding and feedback.

Now let's talk about why differentiation is so important. The reality is that every student learns differently, and it's not fair to expect all students to learn in the same way or at the same pace. When teachers differentiate, they are acknowledging that each student is unique and valuable, and they are working to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed. Moreover, when students feel that their needs are being met, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated, which leads to better learning outcomes.

So how can teachers differentiate in practice? One way is by differentiating content. This means providing students with different materials or resources based on their level of understanding or interest. For example, within our PLD (Promoting Literacy Development) program here at the Junior School, we use regular cycles of diagnostic testing to screen our students so they can be grouped into targeted teaching groups for spelling.

Teachers can also differentiate by adjusting the learning environment. This means creating a classroom that is supportive and welcoming for all students. For example, our teachers provide opportunities for students to work in small groups or pairs, as well as offering flexible seating arrangements. By creating a positive and inclusive learning environment, teachers can help all our boys feel valued and supported.

- Chantelle Bauer - Deputy Head of Junior School (Teaching and Learning)



Latest Blog

Boarding
/
Friday, 27 May 2022

“I’ll Be There for You” at Toowoomba Grammar School

“I’ll be there for you” was the theme of National Boarding Week. This statement is particularly relevant at Toowoomba Grammar School as the boarders, the dayboys and the staff, help each other in the good times and the bad. We see our school as a ‘boarding school’, not a ‘school with boarders’. We are proud to be one of the oldest and most highly regarded boys’ boarding schools in Australia, providing a home away from home for boys for almost 150 years. TGS came from very humble beginnings. The…

Read More
General
/
Thursday, 14 Apr 2022

Helping families navigate rules, rewards and consequences for boys

Recently I was in a webinar that aimed to tackle the issues surrounding technology and its effects on students. Some members of the forum started openly criticising boys for their poor behaviour. Whilst their criticisms were not directed specifically at our boys, I was offended at their general statements. We can be too quick to criticise boys and we forget that their frontal lobes are still developing. We also forget that their brains are “wired” differently from girls and that they don’t see…

Read More
Teaching Excellence
/
Monday, 28 Mar 2022

Accepting Our Past, Creating Our Future

Toowoomba Grammar School has added the new role of Indigenous Education Coordinator to the School’s offering, to further promote a culture of diversity, inclusivity, and reconciliation. Mr Scott Gale has been appointed to this ground-breaking position that aims to spread awareness and understanding of the significance of Australia’s culture and history. “That’s something that has been lacking in Australia’s education system for so long,” said Scott. “It’s an extremely significant part of our…

Read More
People
/
Thursday, 17 Mar 2022

The Gift of Music

You can feel the pride and passion exude from Janelle Fletcher as she reflects on her thirty-year career as a Music Tutor at Toowoomba Grammar School. “It’s a long time to stay in any job,” she admitted. “But working with the boys, seeing how important it is to have music in their lives and to develop not only as musicians but as people, that’s what’s kept me here.” Janelle believes staff in an all-boys’ school have a real understanding of boys. “It’s been very positive for me to see the…

Read More