<p>It’s a mistake to assume that good differentiation always means splitting students up into small groups, says Michael McDowell, an author, coach, and former teacher. </p> <p>A more effective approach, he says, is to design rigorous learning routines that unite the whole class—from fast finishers to kids who need extra support—with shared strategies, structures, and thinking moves. </p> <p>Think: Same surface, different deep problems, much more time in the “we do” space, and a big emphasis on high-quality classroom discussion.</p> <p>In this episode of School of Practice, McDowell breaks down three low-prep differentiation strategies, explains how and when small groups fit into the picture, and makes the case for basketball over ping-pong question protocols. </p> <p>Related resources: </p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.edutopia.org/podcast/one-task-many-doors-a-more-effective-way-to-differentiate">Learn more about this episode</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.edutopia.org/article/how-differentiate-without-separating-students">How to Differentiate Without Splitting Students Up</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.edutopia.org/article/teaching-class-big-ability-differences-todd-finley">Teaching a Class With Big Ability Differences</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.edutopia.org/video/ai-tool-demo-differentiating-class-materials-with-diffit">AI Tool Demo: Differentiating Class Materials With Diffit (video)</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.cultofpedagogy.com/starter-kit-differentiated-instruction/">A Starter Kit for Differentiated Instruction</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nwea.org/blog/2024/4-research-backed-ways-to-differentiate-instruction/">4 Research-Backed Ways to Differentiate Instruction</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Actionable-Assessment-Step-Step-Responsive/dp/1032993995">Actionable Assessment: A Step-by-Step Guide to Responsive Teaching and Student Growth</a></li> </ul>