Create 2.1.3 Using Web 2.0 Tools to Differentiate Student Assessment Quest

The Create skills divides the Web Tools into two categories: one for teacher instruction and one for student assessments. Previously, participants examined tools which afforded differentiated instructional practices. And, for this section, participants evaluated differentiated student assessments. Using the resources as a guide, isolate one Web Tool that aligns with differentiation and student assessment. Then, post the tool to your blog and include information, suggested student use, and instructional practices.


The Digital History site offers History teachers a treasure trove of information and resources for differentiating instruction for students.
http://www.digitalhistory.uh.edu/era.cfm?eraID=15&smtID=3

An example of how this can be used in the classroom, simply pick an era.  World War II is my favorite topic and will serve as our example for a differentiated lesson.  Everyone has a different learning style and one only has to look at the tabs to see something for everyone.  The articles provided provide a glimpse into the historical era that diverts from the usually boring textbook.  The articles allow the students to see the personal side of history that textbooks seldom offer.  Teachers could utilize Lexile Analyzer to present an article for every reading level in the class.

Auditory learners could be assigned research on the styles of music from the 40's and utilize their hand-held devices to play the music.  Digital History also includes films that clips could be utilized with students to give them a sense of the horrors of war as well as geographic locations.  Finally, the site also includes quizzes so that student learning could be assessed.  Overall, Digital History is an outstanding site for teachers looking for differentiation.