The idea of differentiating instruction (DI) to accommodate the different ways

that students learn involves a hefty dose of common sense, as well as sturdy
support in the theory and research of education (Tomlinson & Allan, 2000). It
is an approach to teaching that advocates active planning for student
differences in classrooms.
Characteristics of DI

Not one fits all

Student centered
Respond to the needs of all learners
Classroom observation before addressing diversity identified as
present in the class.
Offers flexibility while staying strong on class objectives.
Strong in Goals of final evaluation
Strategies are made available to all students.
Relies on the identification of diversity by the teacher which implies a
degree of subjectivity and error.
Heavy on procedure and steps.
Heavy for your practitioners.
Needs to be constantly repeated so in many ways unsustainable.

REFERENCES:
http://pdsupport.cmswiki.wikispaces.net/file/view/Wordle_-_Differentiation.jpg/143564969/662x297/Wordle__Differentiation.jpg
http://www.caroltomlinson.com/
http://www.diffcentral.com/images/dimodel.gif