Week+6+-+Topic+4+-+Content

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Describe a strategy that could be used to differentiate content in your teaching area to enhance 21st century learning.

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Kevin Bowman Jackson High School

I think the Khan Academy videos really help in the differentiation of instruction. These videos allow students to see course content and problem solving on a variety of subjects including my own (chemistry and physics). These are about ten minute videos that allow students to move at their own pace and go over content again and again if needed. It is also another way for students to see the material delivered in a new way by someone other than me, sometimes that is useful.

One of the biggest problems students have in chemistry or physics is solving the many different types of problems that are associated with each class. Most of my class time is spent teaching this content and going over examples of the typical problems these students will see as they progress to the college level. I have found that even if students take good notes during class they often have trouble remembering the steps involved in the problem solving process once they leave the classroom. This is why I believe the Khan academy videos are so powerful and useful. If you check out the website: [] you can see the wide variety of topics covered just for physics. Click on any of the topics to see the video on that topic.

If you happen to teach mathematics the practice heading at the top of the page allows for unlimited practice of all types of math problems. [] This video gives you the vision for the math program and hopefully someday the rest of the subjects.

Scott Miller Belpre High School

To differentiate in content I would use the strategy of putting text material in audio format. The implementation would be to create "Mission Impossible" type audio clips that would describe various projects to be completed by students. The textbook that I use for Computer Applications has a couple of projects at the end of each chapter. Instead of just having students read the requirements of the project, I could offer the option of listening to the instructions as I would have them recorded and on the local server. I envision having my Advanced Technology students create these audio clips with Audacity as a mini project of their own. This would enhance 21st century skills in my beginning and more advanced students and provide differentiation at the same time. ___

Jeff Strawser

Jackson High School

I really like the idea of the Voice Threads. My idea is to present a lesson using a mixture of video, text, and voice. Students can view this lesson presentation, pausing or repeating as necessary. Then, each student can post to this any questions, comments, or suggestions. I like this technology because it combines two Web 2.0 technologies together. Video with access whenever it is needed and the wiki type of interaction through postings. Students can choose the type of interaction or style of participation that they are comfortable with using. Hopefully, this will allow students to show their creative side and increase their interest in the class.