Rutgers Gifted Education Certificate Program gifteded.rutgers.edu Created by Lenore Cortina Ed.D. ©2013 Rutgers University Gifted Education Certificate Program Tiered Graphic Organizers Graphic organizers are used frequently in schools as tools to help students organize information. They can be used across disciplines and at all grade levels. Modifying graphic organizers that you are already using in your classroom to raise the level of academic demand for advanced learners is a low preparation strategy that can enhance learning for all students. By modifying and tiering a graphic organizer, rather than giving your students completely different organizers, you are allowing all of your students to engage with the same thinking skills and concepts. You are differentiating the process by which students engage with the content and at times, you are elevating the content for your advanced learners. By adapting your existing graphic organizers to make them suitable for varied readiness levels, you can address the pacing issues that often frustrate students and teachers. The increased level of demand will keep your gifted learners focused on the work at hand, and support your struggling learners. If advanced students engage with extension materials, the whole class could benefit if groups were asked to share the work when the task is completed. Examples in a differentiated classroom: Most teachers have used a Venn diagram to teach students how to compare and contrast. Adding a third circle (or more) to the Venn diagram can add a complex layer to an analysis of factors. In this example, the lesson is focused on the economic concept of supply and demand. The class might compare the differing perspectives of supply and demand held by different stakeholders. By adding the third circle, politicians, the teacher is requiring an advanced understanding of the political influences on commerce through the eyes of a policymaker.