How to Differentiate a Lesson

What it does and who it helps

The checklist prompts access, support and extension choices while keeping the shared learning goal visible.

This printable is for preschool or primary educators and can be adapted for homeschool planning.

It makes a common planning task concrete and gives you prompts to complete before teaching.

Step by step

1. Open the matching resource from the Resources library.
2. Read the purpose and instructions above the printable.
3. Use the labeled spaces to draft a plan for your actual class.
4. Review the result for time, access, safety and local expectations.
5. Print the sheet or save it as a PDF for your own records.

Fields and controls

• Start with the goal, review learners’ access needs, choose one or two supports, plan an extension, then note what worked.
• The labeled writing spaces are prompts, not mandatory fields; use the ones that help your class.
• Print this resource opens the browser dialog; the back link returns to the library.

Classroom example

Input or preparation: Grade 3 explanation task: offer picture vocabulary and a sentence starter; invite ready learners to compare two explanations.

Example result: All learners work toward an explanation, with different scaffolds and a meaningful extension.

Edit, copy and print

Write directly on a printed copy, or recreate the prompts in your own editable document. Review and change the plan after observing learners.

Select page text to copy it into your own planning document, or print the sheet and write on paper. This resource page has no separate Copy button.

Choose Print this resource and select paper in your browser dialog. You can also choose Save as PDF. Check the preview and margins first.

The site does not store what you write on the sheet. Save a PDF from the browser print dialog or copy text into your own document. Avoid identifiable student details.

Teacher tips

• Follow individual learning plans and local guidance; the checklist is a planning prompt, not a diagnosis.
• Use one clear learning purpose and note what evidence will guide the next step.

Common mistakes

• Do not fill every line with activities that cannot fit the time.
• Do not include identifiable learner information on a shared or unsecured copy.

FAQ

Can I download an editable file?

The current V1 offers a print-friendly web sheet. Save it as PDF or transfer prompts into your own document.

Is it curriculum aligned?

No universal alignment is claimed. Check your local curriculum and class needs.

Related tools and resources

Open the Lesson Planner for a generated first draft, or explore the other free printables in Resources.

Open the related tool or resource Browse all resources