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  • Essay / Book Chapter Review - 791

    IntroductionI chose the article titled “Meeting National Standards with Integrated Curriculum, Differentiated Learning” by author Aldene Fredenburg (2006). According to Fredenburg (2006), with the No Child Left Behind law, schools primarily focus on students who pass the state standardized test rather than meeting the different needs of students. The author further asserts that schools can use many non-traditional methods and child-friendly techniques that will help diverse students achieve their learning standards. I chose this article to learn more about differentiated learning and how to respond to the diverse intelligences I encounter daily within my classroom. This article also highlighted that through the integrated curriculum “children can learn the foundations needed to meet state and national requirements while providing support for slower learners and enrichment for learners at all levels.” Summary Fredenburg (2006) states that with the No Child Left Behind law, schools standardize their curricula to ensure that their students pass the achievement tests required by law. According to Fredenburg (2006), based on the law, many schools resorted to “test-based teaching,” which resulted in a reduction in the lunch period or even the elimination of recess. Fredenburg (2006) pointed out that there are innovative ways to provide the instruction students need without depending on boring exercises or expanding an already tiring school day. The author asserts that for years, wise teachers have integrated the curriculum through differentiated learning to meet the needs of each child. He further claims that there is a greater availability of high quality children's literature since education...... middle of article...... The author believes that establishments can use many innovative techniques that will help students of different levels achieve learning standards while maintaining their child status. After reading this article, I have a better understanding of what differentiation entails. I learned that it is not just about providing students with different activities, but also about knowing our students, identifying their knowledge and developing it according to their level and learning style. I am of the opinion that to improve the education system in Jamaica, we must start by improving the head (ministry); teaching them that “one style does not fit all” and that teaching goes beyond content coverage and that assessment is more than just accurate recall. In conclusion, for educators to meet different needs, resources must be readily available to meet different learning styles..