RTI With Differentiated Instruction, Grades 6-8

Jodi O'Meara is a curriculum specialist for students with special needs and a professional developer for educators and administrators. She has presented at state, national and international conferences. With over 15 years experience as a teacher and administrator of general education, special education and gifted education, she recognizes the diverse needs of students and teachers. Additionally, she is a certified life skills coach and provides guidance for leadership in business and education through her own company, Body and Mind Coaching and Consulting. O'Meara specializes in professional development in the areas of differentiated instruction for students with special needs as well as students identified as gifted. She has also been involved with related projects and presentations such as Response to Intervention. She was a co-writer of the Frameworks for Gifted Learners for the state of Florida as well as the Access Points which align standards for students with significant disabilities to general education standards. She is a former president of the Florida Association for Gifted and is on the Board of Directors for the Family Network on Disabilities in her local area. O'Meara believes that teachers can change the lives of people more effectively than any other professionals. She is strongly committed to supporting teachers in efforts to inspire their students.

Acknowledgements About the Author Introduction Part I 1. Principles of RTI and Implications in the Classroom 2. Principles of DI and Implications in the Classroom 3. The Merging of DI and RTI Part II 4. Tier 1 - Curriculum and Instruction 5. Tier 1 - Assessment 6. Tier 1 - The Environment Part III 7. Tier 2 - Instruction and Differentiation 8. Tier 2 - Assessment and Problem Solving 9. Tier 3 - Instruction, Assessment, and Problem Solving 10. The Problem-Solving Team Resources References Index

"This book is designed as a practical guide for examining the format and efficacy of the Parallel Curriculum Model. The structure of the book is easy to follow and reflects a teacher's metacognitive process when reflecting on how to create high-level tasks for students. Some of the most unique and applicable features are the teacher reflections, the focus on concepts and principles, and the links to supportive resources. This book offers teachers the framework they need to add relevance, authenticity and meaning to their instruction." -- Heidi Hanson, Talented and Gifted Specialist "This resource for middle school teachers provides an excellent framework for differentiation within their classrooms. The author's descriptions, examples, and scenarios clearly detail necessary information for teachers to use while demystifying complex legislation and mandates." -- Mary E. Little, Associate Professor "Shows how to adapt assessments, curriculum and instruction to student abilities. Lesson plans, case studies, rubrics and more contribute to an outstanding survey. Recommended." -- James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief