What approach should a teacher use to differentiate instruction for students making similar grammatical errors?

The correct approach involves helping students understand the distinction between everyday language and academic language. This understanding is crucial because many students may be fluent in their everyday vernacular but struggle with the more formal grammatical structures required in academic writing. By providing instruction that clarifies this difference, teachers can guide students in recognizing when to apply more formal grammatical rules, which can significantly enhance their writing skills and overall language proficiency. This targeted support allows students to see the relevance of learning conventional grammar, as it directly impacts their ability to succeed in academic contexts.

In contrast, allowing students to use their language variety in class, teaching them to identify and correct their errors, or encouraging cooperative learning tasks can also be valuable methods. However, these strategies may not directly address the specific grammatical issues students are facing in relation to the demands of academic language. Understanding these different contexts enhances students' ability to adapt their language use appropriately, ultimately fostering better comprehension and communication in varied settings.