PBL and Differentiated Instruction

Question from a Teacher:
Can you differentiate Project-Based Instruction (PBL)? Could I see some tangible examples?

Project-Based Learning is a great instructional vehicle, within which differentiated instruction can be effective. The core of PBL planning is:

1. Identify the learning targets
2.  Develop the supporting assessment
3.  Lesson planning

a.       What supports are needed for struggling learners?

b.      What supports are needed for advanced learners?

Standards-Focused PBL incorporates 21^st Century skills, such as collaboration, communication, research, problem-solving, independent, and technology literate. There are many ways to incorporate these skills in learning, and support of learners.

Video Examples from Edutopia and Youtube:

Project Learning Introduction

Project Learning Overview (extended)

5 Year Olds Pilot their own Project Learning

How do I observe My world

Here are some resources to review:

• Leading Project Based Learning
  Provides a tutorial on PBL which when completed, educators have a PBL unit ready to implement. Also worthwhile is the PBL Resources section that includes a Video Library.
  
• Buck Institute
  This is an important location for getting professional learning, databases, and PD support. Many PBL institutions and schools have their roots from the Buck Institute. The non-profit organization is an international leader in PBL.
  
• Differentiation in Practice (Books)
  --Carol Ann Tomlinson and Caroline Cunningham Eidson. Differentiation in Practice: A Resource Guide for Differentiating Curriculum, Grades K-5 (2003)
  --Carol Ann Tomlinson and Caroline Cunningham Eidson. Differentiation in Practice: A Resource Guide for Differentiating Curriculum, Grades 5–9 (2003)
  --Carol Ann Tomlinson and Cindy A. Strickland. Differentiation in Practice: A Resource Guide for Differentiating Curriculum, Grades 9–12 (2005) 

These 3 books are an excellent resource for examples of high quality units that incorporate Differentiated Instruction effectively. It includes valuable teacher reflections about why and how the units were developed, and the effectiveness of the units. Each unit includes a unit outline, the lessons, and related materials needed to implement. The books are best used by teachers who have a basic understanding of Differentiated Instruction and/or quality unit design.