Let's face it, we are all different. There are no individuals who are completely identical. Variation is inherent in all species. Likewise, children enter school with varying degrees of prior knowledge and life experiences. Therefore, it's imperative that we meet students where they are and work to build upon their strengths and differences. Differentiated Instruction is essential to meet the needs of every student. Yet, this concept is many times easier said than done. It is easy to say differentiate, but where exactly do you begin. Differentiation begins with pre-assessment. You certainly have to know your students; however, knowing your students is more than learning about their  likes and dislikes. It also involves coupling the knowledge of their learning styles with their capabilities to understand the material that you are teaching. Furthermore, when students have not mastered concepts taught, it's important to reteach the skills in way that will essentially help them to mastery. Take a look at one school's success with differentiating in their school. Notice how both collaboration and ongoing formative assessment is the driving force to successfully differentiate for students and essentially help them to truly learn the skills. 

The foundation of a Balanced Literacy Framework is creating a literacy rich environment. A literate environment can be powerful and supportive of effective literacy instruction. Literate environments motivates student independence and emphasizes the importance of speaking, reading, and writing. Below you will some guidelines to make your learning environment literacy rich!

Be sure to provide space for both whole and small group instruction. Also include space for independent, and collaborative interactions for students.
Create a well-organized library of books of various levels and genres. Include a minimum of about 10 books per student. Provide students with other print resources as well, such as magazines, newspapers, recipes, signs, menus, etc.
Set up areas with pillows or cozy chairs where students can enjoy reading.

Use your wall space! Display labels, word walls, teacher/student co-created anchor charts, posters, and AUTHENTIC student work that will be used and referred to by your students.
Set up areas for literacy centers or stations. Organize materials in colorful labeled bins that make use and clean up easy.
Provide students with a VARIETY of engaging and accessible materials to promote reading and writing. Some materials may include colorful markers or pens, letter tiles, magnets, puppets, Play-Doh, learning mats, or games.
Arrange a large rug to serve as a place for the class to gather, read, and learn together away from their desks.
Incorporate technology if it's available, consider using I-Pads, e-readers, computers, or active whiteboards as tools for motivating students about literacy.