Differentiation is a method of teaching that recognizes that students learn in different ways. Carol Ann Tomlinson believes differentiation means giving students multiple options for taking in information. Author Laura Robb said “differentiating instruction means that you observe and understand the differences and similarities among students and use this information to plan instruction.”
Here, we focus on a particular differentiated instructional strategy: Carousel Brainstorming!
Carousel Brainstorming
This strategy focuses on reflective questioning.
*Divide the class into four groups.
*Assign each group to a station where a reflection question is posted on chart paper.
*Give each group five minutes to respond to the question. Each group writes their thoughts the posted chart paper.
*After the allotted time, ring a bell (or give a signal) for the groups to rotate to the next chart.
*Each group will respond to each chart.
*At the end of the activity, each group will take turns reading all the responses to the entire class.
This activity can be used for sharing, for a test review, and as an introduction to a new unit of study.