Differentiation is modified instruction that helps students with diverse academic needs and learning styles master the same challenging academic content. This month's newsletter examines the characteristics of differentiation and offers suggestions for how teachers can use it to improve student achievement. [This document was produced by The Center for Comprehensive School Reform and Improvement, administered by Learning Point Associates in partnership with the Southwest Educational Development Laboratory (SEDL) and WestEd, under contract with the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education of the U.S. Department of Education.]