Using Google Forms for Adaptive, Differentiated Gifted Lessons
- Michelle Robinson
- Jan 4
- 3 min read
My mission has always been to empower educators with the tools and support needed to make teaching gifted students a sustainable and joyful journey. Whenever I find a free tool that does this, I can’t wait to share it! Google Forms is one of these unicorns. 🦄
Before we go any further, I must give a shout-out to Tyler Tarver and Tarver Academy for this fantastic idea. Tyler’s resources and templates have been invaluable in shaping this approach. You can check out more of his work at Tarver Academy.
Google Forms provides a free and accessible way to differentiate instruction without needing additional expensive resources.
The amazing thing about Google Forms is it's accessibility. It is available to almost everyone. If you have an internet connection & some type of device, you can access Google Forms for free.
Let’s check out this simple tool that can transform your teaching approach. You can create adaptive lessons that meet your students where they are, offering them a personalized learning journey.
The Magic of Google Forms: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Set Up Your Form
Begin by creating a new Google Form. Start with a section that includes basic information about the lesson—instructions, standards, and objectives. Make sure to set up as a quiz. Also, collecting student emails will help you track their progress. It also allows students to return to a partially completed form without starting over.
Step 2: Create Instructional Content
In the first section, include instructional content such as videos, images, or text. This content will form the basis of your lesson. While creating your own videos can take time, you can also leverage YouTube resources or other educational videos that fit your lesson objectives.
Step 3: Formulate Questions
Next, add questions related to the instructional content. Make these questions required and set up an answer key. The key to differentiation lies in what happens after a student answers a question.
Step 4: Directing Student Pathways
🪄Here’s where the Google Forms magic happens. Based on their answers, students are directed to different sections. For instance, if a student answers incorrectly, they are sent to a section that offers additional instructional content or practice problems. If they answer correctly, they move on to the next question or an enrichment activity.
Example Scenario:
Instructional Video: Present a video explaining a new concept.
Question: After the video, ask a question to check understanding.
Pathways:
Correct Answer: Move to the next advanced question.
Incorrect Answer: Redirect to additional resources or another video explaining the concept in more detail, then back to the original question for another try.
Step 5: Enrichment Activities
For students who excel and finish quickly, you can include enrichment activities. These could be more complex problems, creative projects, or even digital breakout section where they solve puzzles related to the lesson.
Strategies for Implementing in Your Classroom:
Start Simple: Create a basic form with one or two questions and pathways. Gradually build more complexity as you get comfortable with the tool.
Leverage Existing Resources: Use YouTube videos and other online materials to supplement your lessons.
Iterate and Improve: Collect feedback from your students on what worked and what didn’t. Use this to refine your forms.
Collaborate: Share your forms with colleagues. Collaboration can bring new ideas and improvements.
Using Google Forms for differentiated instruction is a game-changer. It’s simple, effective, and free, allowing you to create a personalized learning experience for each of your students. By implementing these strategies and leveraging our resources at Gifted Education Solutions, you can overcome the challenges of teaching gifted students and find renewed joy and confidence in your role.
For more detailed guidance and support, consider joining our coaching programs and online courses. Together, we can create a more engaging and effective learning environment for our gifted students.
Our Services
At Gifted Education Solutions, we understand the unique challenges you face. Our services are designed to support you in every step of your teaching journey:
1:1 Coaching: Personalized sessions to address specific challenges and develop tailored strategies.
Group Coaching: Collaborative sessions where you can learn from and with other educators.
Online Courses: Self-paced courses that fit your schedule, focusing on practical and effective teaching strategies.
Connect with other gifted education professionals through our free online Facebook community. Share resources, ideas, and support, reducing the feeling of isolation.
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