When planning progress monitoring for students receiving differentiated instruction, what guideline is most important?

Selecting assessment instruments that will show even small improvements is essential for progress monitoring, especially in a differentiated instruction context. This approach focuses on the continuous growth of each student, acknowledging that some may make gradual but significant strides in their learning over time.

In a differentiated instruction environment, students often have varied starting points and unique learning trajectories. Therefore, assessments that can capture small improvements help educators to understand individual progress better and adjust instruction accordingly. Such assessments allow teachers to celebrate small wins, fostering motivation and encouraging a growth mindset among students. They can also serve to identify specific areas where additional support may be required, making it easier to tailor interventions effectively.

The other options emphasize different aspects of progress monitoring but do not align as closely with the principles of differentiated instruction. Monitoring weak and strong skills equally may not provide insight into the most crucial areas that need attention. Standardized assessments are valuable but may not reflect the nuanced growth of individual students effectively. Lastly, group-administered assessments can overlook individual learning pathways and successes, which is vital for differentiated approaches. Thus, focusing on instruments sensitive to small improvements is paramount for effective progress monitoring within this instructional model.