I’m not really a fan of lists. Some of them are marketed as “magic formulas” that claim to offer a solution that “will always work.” That’s not realistic, in my opinion. But in this case, I’ll have to make an exception. After all, the goal here isn’t to offer ready-made solutions, but to spark conversations and point out paths that can lead to an effective learning experience in your processes.

The challenge of inclusion is already well known to everyone. And when we use the term “inclusion, ” we are talking about everyone—men and women alike. And for everyone—men and women alike. This includes individuals in special education, people with various syndromes and disorders, those with learning difficulties, those with gaps in their learning, atypical individuals, those with diverse communication styles, refugees and others with language barriers, and a wide range of characteristics and conditions. 

True inclusion is a daily, collective challenge that begins with public policies and reverberates through administrative actions, in the classroom, within families, and in other settings. The fine line between inclusion and simply “welcoming and caring for” is also something that surprises me on every visit. Many people believe that ensuring access, care, and retention is what inclusion means. No! Inclusion is achieved through practices that benefit everyone, placing students on their own learning paths. Different paces, appropriate content, adapted practices… but a single path.

To give an illustrative example, imagine a route between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Some will opt for the shuttle flight. Others will choose a comfortable overnight trip on a sleeper bus. There are those who’ll even choose a trip in a business-class seat. Others will prefer to take the train to a certain point and continue their journey by other means of transportation. Some will drive all the way. Others, even when driving, will stop at strategic points to rest or visit places. Still others will make a pilgrimage on foot. But everyone can leave the “Marvelous City” and take a stroll through Ibirapuera Park, if they so desire. What cannot happen is that while some are on the journey, others are not. The path—education, learning—is diverse and open to everyone.

Even so, we see that when we think about accessibility in the curriculum, many people think of “downgrading the curriculum” or simplifying activities and practices, limiting everything to drawing and play. This is yet another practice that can confuse educators. Adaptations and adjustments are necessary and welcome. But this does not necessarily boil down to “simplifying.” Some content should and can be streamlined to its essentials, but the goal is never to scale back; rather, it is to complement and supplement the curriculum with strategies and resources to help students achieve the necessary skills. That is the goal.

Some students are moving at a fast pace, others are striving for success, and still others are struggling to keep up… that’s the rhythm of a classroom. But how can a teacher bring balance to such a diverse classroom? Here’s a list that may shed some light on this issue.

1. Spark Interest

That’s the first step. It’s extremely important. Mary Helen Bower taught us that “emotion is the glue of memory.” When students are engaging with topics that interest them, they’re more likely to succeed and learn. Offer projects that align with their passions.

2. The Power of the Group

Small groups emphasize collaborative learning and peer learning. By surrounding them with other like-minded students, they can exchange ideas and motivate one another. This safe space will further develop their cooperation, communication, and listening skills.

3. Get to know your students' strengths

It’s important to understand your students’ strengths. What they already know and can do serves as the starting point for achieving their planned goals. Challenge those skills and explore them through new activities. This will help them overcome their fear of trying.

4. Connect with the real world

Schools cannot disconnect from society, so have your students think about how they can apply their knowledge to the real world. Everything we learn in school is connected to everyday life, and we’ll use it. Teach writing by giving it a practical purpose, such as jotting down a note or writing a tweet. Use the day’s news to discuss science and math. It’s important to keep your students interested in the outside world.

5. Set goals

Only goals that are set can be achieved. Set goals that are achievable, measurable, relevant, and time-bound. Don’t set year-end goals. Ideally, set goals every two weeks or once a month. A goal cannot be unattainable.

6. Challenge the students

It's no fun not to be challenged. Everyone likes to win. But while challenging students is very important, you don't want to discourage them. They shouldn't be faced with tasks that seem impossible or far beyond their reach. Create achievable challenges and then gradually make them harder, just like a good game.

7. Technology is your ally

Especially in today's modern world, technology is a catalyst for learning in the classroom. With it, we can broaden the scope of learning and do things that wouldn't be possible without it. Teachers can use platforms like YouTube and other apps and resources to increase engagement and enhance learning.

8. Plan for creativity and the creative process

Good planning has always been a big help—even when it doesn’t work out. In your lesson plans, include activities that require students to create things—it could be using a different color of paint or designing a new kind of trash can. Ask them to turn old shirts into bags or make souvenirs out of scrap materials. Encourage them to be creative.

9. Different evaluations

Assess students in different ways. Don’t focus solely on tests and exams. Evaluate them using portfolios, reports, and videos. Use the results to track their progress and/or adjust their learning path.

10. Streamlined Resume

The most effective classrooms start with the right curriculum. Prioritize what’s important to students right now in the curriculum. Focus on the most immediate goals. It’s okay if a student hasn’t yet mastered verb conjugations in a foreign language as long as they’re doing well in their native language. It’s okay if they haven’t yet memorized the dates for history class. If they’re a good reader and can understand what they’re reading, that will come with time. Some skills need to be prioritized.

These important approaches aren’t just beneficial for students with disabilities. These ten methods can be applied in any classroom. All students can draw inspiration from lesson plans, work in small groups, and use technology in their daily tasks. Every type of student benefits from classroom challenges.

Including students in the classroom is important because it is the law, it is the right thing to do, it benefits all students, and it is best for society. Tailoring instruction, providing additional support, creating an inclusive environment, and celebrating diversity are some strategies. By following these strategies, we can include students in the classroom without compromising the quality of the learning experience.

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