Using Formative Assessment to Differentiate Middle School Literacy Instruction: Seven Practices to Maximize Learning

Formative assessment and differentiated instruction made manageable

We all recognize the countless benefits of differentiated instruction. The challenge is in its implementation. This start-to-finish guide will show you how through formative assessment and seven classroom-tested practices for maximizing student learning. Packed with vignettes, sample worksheets, and charts, this toolkit demonstrates how to:

• Establish new classroom norms 
• Involve students in the use of assessment data and feedback to inform their next steps
• Clarify end-of-unit criteria to help map learning progression
• Apply assessment data to grouping students for tiered activities
• Differentiate assignments based on student readiness, characteristics, and interest