What is the first step a teacher should take in developing a differentiation plan for a student?

The first step a teacher should take in developing a differentiation plan for a student involves assessing the student's current understanding and comprehension of the material. By asking text-based questions, the teacher can gather valuable insights into the student's strengths, weaknesses, and specific learning needs. This process allows the teacher to identify areas where the student may be struggling and areas of proficiency, which are critical in crafting tailored instructional strategies that meet the individual learning requirements.

Understanding comprehension at this stage sets the foundation for all subsequent steps in the differentiation process. The information gathered from asking questions can guide the teacher in determining the most effective instructional methods and materials to use that align with the student's learning style and level of understanding.