Creating an inclusive classroom that meets the diverse needs of all students often starts with modifying the curriculum. While the idea of modifying content might sound simple, implementing changes on the fly can be challenging. In this post, we’ll explore 10 practical and effective strategies to help you modify curriculum in real time, fostering an environment where every student can succeed. Whether you’re new to inclusive teaching or looking for fresh ideas, these tips will support you in creating a more equitable and inclusive classroom. Just like we’ve shared tips for flexible seating and strategies for differentiated instruction, we are here to share 10 easy tips to “modify curriculum on the fly” to help increase attention and participation for meaningful inclusion opportunities.
Key Considerations Before Modifying Curriculum
Before diving into modifications, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you’re meeting the needs of each student:
- Developmental Language Level: Students may have developmental language levels that are different from their grade level. For example, a third-grader with an intellectual disability may have the language skills of a 4-year-old. In such cases, simplifying language, using visuals, and adjusting question types (e.g., asking “what” or “who” instead of “when” and “why”) can be helpful.
- Reading Level: If a student is reading below grade level, it’s important to collaborate with specialists like reading teachers or special education staff. Utilize tools like audiobooks, videos, or text-to-speech apps to make content accessible and ensure the student can still participate in class discussions.
- Stamina and Frustration Tolerance: For some students, the goal may be to maintain attention and participate in the lesson, rather than mastering the content itself. Consider how much a student can manage before they become overwhelmed and plan accordingly.
10 Strategies to Modify Curriculum on the Fly & Increase Participation
1. Diffit: A Game-Changer for Reading Activities
If you have a lengthy text to modify, Diffit is an excellent tool. It allows you to adjust the length, complexity, and reading level of any material. Need an extension activity? You can upload reading texts or YouTube videos, and Diffit will generate related worksheets and activities instantly. It’s a powerful way to customize reading material without starting from scratch.
2. Modify the Amount of Reading
Students can easily become overwhelmed by large amounts of reading. If a student is struggling with a long passage, try breaking it into smaller chunks. You can also use Diffit to shorten the text while maintaining key content. Alternatively, allow students to read part of the passage, take a break, and then return to it, which can help sustain focus and reduce frustration.
3. “Definition Expert” to Boost Vocabulary Retention
Assign each student a vocabulary word and make them the class “definition expert.” Whenever their word appears during the lesson, they will provide a simple 2-5 word definition. Rotate the words daily to help students remember the vocabulary while reinforcing their understanding of the material. Focus on vocabulary words that meets their level and helps keeps them engaged.
4. Visual Supports with Vocabulary
To aid comprehension, print out pictures and definitions of vocabulary words used in the lesson. For students in grades 3-5, this can reduce the burden of processing information from slides and textbooks. As the lesson progresses, students can match the words to corresponding images, reinforcing the new concepts.
5. Fill-in-the-Blank Notes
For older students who may be overwhelmed by taking notes, try modifying slides by removing key vocabulary or terms. Provide students with copies of the slides and have them fill in the blanks as the lesson progresses. This helps them stay engaged without the stress of writing down everything.
6. Listening Scavenger Hunt for Active Listening
If you have a student with a higher developmental language level, consider creating a “listening scavenger hunt.” Choose a few key terms that are frequently mentioned in the lesson, and have the student listen for them. Each time they hear one of the words, they make a tally mark. At the end of the lesson, review how many times each word was mentioned. This encourages active listening and helps the student focus on essential vocabulary.
7. Simplify Comprehension with “Somebody-Wanted-But-So-At Last”
For complex lessons—like history—use the “Somebody-Wanted-But-So-At Last” strategy to simplify key ideas. This template helps students understand the core elements of a story or event: who was involved, what they wanted, the problem they faced, how they solved it, and what happened in the end. This strategy distills complex content into digestible parts, enhancing comprehension.
8. Baamboozle: Fun Reinforcement of Key Concepts
If you’re looking for an engaging way to assess student understanding, try Baamboozle, a game-based learning platform. Create a quiz based on the key terms or concepts covered in the lesson, and use it as a fun, interactive review. The platform includes features like bonus points or surprise twists, which make learning more engaging and promote positive social interaction.
9. Modify the Amount of Work or Final Product
Reducing the scope of assignments is one of the most common modifications in IEPs (Individualized Education Plans), but it can be tricky to implement effectively. When modifying tasks, ask yourself: What’s the core takeaway of this lesson? For example, if a fifth grader is working on a research project about the American Revolution, instead of having them write a full essay, consider simplifying the task by providing a graphic organizer like a “Somebody-Wanted-But-So-At Last” chart, followed by a short paragraph. This allows the student to focus on key concepts without feeling overwhelmed. Similarly, instead of asking a student to write an entire research paper, offer alternative methods like a Google Slides presentation. By using tools that align with their strengths—whether it’s visual, auditory, or hands-on activities—you’ll increase their engagement and motivation. Keep the focus on learning rather than just producing a final product.
10. Connect to Life Skills
When a concept feels too challenging for a student, try to connect it to practical life skills that are relevant to their experience. For students in older elementary grades who have a developmental language level of 4-5 years old, consider how the curriculum can bridge academic learning with everyday skills. For instance, instead of focusing on complex topics like erosion or the water cycle, consider activities that center around weather and its daily implications. Have students identify types of weather, match outfits to different temperatures, or recognize various water settings like beaches, rivers, and lakes.
For more complex social studies topics, such as immigration, simplify the task to a personal level. Encourage the student to create a family tree or explore family history, which makes the material more relatable and accessible. Connecting academic content to real-life experiences not only makes learning more meaningful but also helps students build skills they’ll use in the future.
Final Thoughts
Modifying curriculum on the fly doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By considering the individual needs of your students and applying these 10 strategies, you can create a more inclusive and supportive classroom environment. Small adjustments can make a big difference in helping all students thrive—whether through simplified reading, interactive games, or alternative assignment formats. Remember, inclusivity is about meeting students where they are and providing opportunities for them to engage with the content in meaningful ways.
What strategies have worked best in your classroom? Below are other posts with great ideas to modify curriculum!
📗How to Modify Curriculum for Special Education Students
📕Engaging Early Learners: Modifying the Creative Curriculum📘The Inclusive Class: Transform Your Teaching with Expert Support Services