Tools for Differentiation with AI

ChatGPT is a large language model, often called an LLM, that can generate text and ideas in response to prompts. In simple terms, it is like having a conversation with a tool that can reword, create, and adapt text quickly. For teachers, this means it can support differentiation by helping adjust materials to different levels, provide quick examples, and spark new ideas. ChatGPT offers a free version with limited features and a paid subscription called ChatGPT Plus that provides access to the most powerful models. Check the tool’s site for the most current details on features and pricing. A link to the site is provided below.

How to Use ChatGPT for Differentiation

Good for:

Creating multiple versions of the same text so all students can access the same content at the right level of challenge

Generating practice activities that target specific skills or readiness levels

Producing extension tasks and enrichment questions that keep advanced learners engaged

Reframing explanations into varied formats such as outlines, dialogues, or step-by-step guides to match student learning profiles

How to use it:
ChatGPT works well with the prompting template introduced in the book: Act as [role]. Here is [student need or content]. Provide [what you want the AI to do]. This structure helps guide the tool to produce clear and useful results. For differentiation, you might use it to adjust reading levels, generate targeted practice, or design alternate entry points for students working on the same concept.

Google Gemini is a large language model developed by Google. It integrates naturally with Google Workspace, which makes it especially useful for teachers who already use Docs, Slides, and Gmail. Gemini can generate and adapt text, create outlines, and assist with planning tasks directly inside the tools you already use. Gemini is available in both free and paid versions, depending on access level and features. Check the tool’s site for the most current details on features and pricing. A link to the site is provided below.

How to Use Google Gemini for Differentiation

Good for:

Adapting lesson materials in Google Docs to multiple reading levels

Creating quick outlines for lessons, projects, or writing tasks

Suggesting differentiated activities that align with the same objective

Drafting parent communication in multiple languages to strengthen home-school connections

How to use it:
Gemini works well with the prompting template from the book: Act as [role]. Here is [student need or content]. Provide [what you want the AI to do]. This makes it simple to guide the tool within Google Workspace. For example, you can paste a passage into Docs and ask Gemini to rewrite it at three different levels, or request that it generate extension tasks in Slides for students who are ready for a challenge.

NotebookLM is an AI tool from Google designed to work with your own uploaded content. You can upload documents, notes, or readings and then ask questions, generate summaries, or create study supports directly from that material. For differentiation, this means you can adapt resources you already use without starting from scratch. NotebookLM is currently free to use, though access may be limited depending on rollout. Check the tool’s site for the most current details on features and access. A link to the site is provided below.

How to Use NotebookLM for Differentiation

Good for:

Summarizing long readings into shorter versions for different readiness levels

Creating study guides or flashcards from classroom resources

Generating comprehension questions tailored to different levels of learners

Helping students engage with complex material by breaking it into manageable chunks

How to use it:
Using the prompting template from the book, you might say Act as a reading specialist. Here is an article my students are reading. Provide two shorter versions at different reading levels. Because NotebookLM draws from the documents you upload, it ensures the differentiated materials stay aligned with your specific content and curriculum.

MagicSchool.ai is an AI platform built specifically for educators. It offers ready-made templates that help with lesson planning, assessment creation, and differentiation tasks. Unlike general-purpose tools, it is designed with teacher workflows in mind, making it easier to create materials quickly and consistently. MagicSchool.ai has a free version with a wide range of templates and a paid plan that unlocks additional features. Check the tool’s site for the most current details on features and pricing. A link to the site is provided below.

How to Use MagicSchool.ai for Differentiation

Good for:

Generating differentiated lesson plans and activities with built-in scaffolds

Adapting questions or assessments to multiple levels of difficulty

Creating enrichment tasks that extend beyond the standard curriculum

Producing instructional supports such as sentence starters, graphic organizers, or simplified directions

How to use it:
MagicSchool.ai works through a menu of templates organized by teacher tasks. You select the template that matches your need, such as Differentiate Text, Adjust Questions, or Create Enrichment Activities. Once you paste in your content, the tool produces multiple versions tailored to different levels of learners. The interface is simple and teacher-friendly, which means you do not have to spend time figuring out how to phrase prompts. Instead, you focus on choosing the right template and reviewing the output for your students.

Diffit is an AI tool designed to adapt and create instructional materials at different reading levels. Teachers can input a passage, topic, or standard, and Diffit generates versions of the text along with supporting activities such as vocabulary lists, comprehension questions, and summaries. Its interface is streamlined for classroom use, making it easy to produce differentiated resources in minutes. Diffit offers both a free version with core features and a paid version with expanded options. Check the tool’s site for the most current details on features and pricing. A link to the site is provided below.

How to Use Diffit for Differentiation

Good for:

Adjusting texts to multiple reading levels so all students can access the same content

Creating ready-made comprehension questions aligned with the adapted text

Producing vocabulary supports and summaries for struggling readers

Generating extension tasks that challenge students who are ready to go deeper

How to use it:
Diffit works through a simple interface. You choose your topic or paste in a text, select the desired reading level, and the tool generates a customized set of resources. This includes differentiated passages, vocabulary supports, and comprehension questions. Teachers can quickly select the level that matches each group of students, making it easy to provide multiple entry points into the same lesson without rewriting everything by hand.