Differentiation vs. Intervention

Ms. Lopez groups her students by reading level during literacy block. One group is reading a leveled passage with guided questions, another is working independently on a novel, and a third group meets with her for direct instruction on decoding strategies.

• Differentiation

• Intervention

• Both

After a recent math benchmark, Mr. Rivera identifies four students who scored significantly below grade level. He pulls them for 20 minutes, 3 times a week, to re-teach foundational skills using manipulatives and targeted activities. He monitors progress weekly.

• Differentiation

• Intervention

• Both

Students are asked to demonstrate their understanding of ecosystems. They choose to either write a report, create a diorama, film a video, or design a Google Slides presentation. The teacher provides rubrics and check-ins for support.

• Differentiation

• Intervention

• Both

A 5th grade student is two years below grade level in reading. The classroom teacher gives them decodable text daily and logs progress in phonics skills. The student also meets with the reading interventionist twice a week outside of class.

• Differentiation

• Intervention

• Both

Students are placed in new math groups weekly based on quick checks. One week, high performers get a challenge problem while a small group works with the teacher on a specific misconception.

• Differentiation

• Intervention

• Both

You notice that Ethan consistently finishes every assignment well ahead of the rest of the class. His work is accurate but lacks depth. He seems disengaged during whole-group lessons and rushes through tasks.

• Differentiation

• Intervention

• Both

Maria has failed three consecutive math quizzes. She participates in class and completes homework, but consistently struggles when tested. You’ve already modified your pacing and given her extended time, but her scores remain low.

• Differentiation

• Intervention

• Both

During science discussions, Jalen shows a deep understanding of concepts and explains ideas clearly. However, when asked to complete writing assignments, he struggles to organize his thoughts and often turns in incomplete work.

• Differentiation

• Intervention

• Both

Aaliyah is struggling in both reading comprehension and written expression. She cannot complete assignments without heavy support. Despite multiple differentiated strategies, she’s making minimal progress.

• Differentiation

• Intervention

• Both

Daniel has been absent 6 times this month and often returns without completing missing work. When he is present, he participates, but he’s clearly behind in both math and reading.

• Differentiation

• Intervention

• Both