Differentiation in every lesson: why it is hard and how AI makes it easier
Genuine differentiation takes hours. Here is how teachers are using AI to create Foundation, Core and Extension materials in minutes.
Marcus Johnson
Maths Lead, Sheffield
What differentiation actually means
Differentiation is not about creating three entirely different lessons. It is about ensuring every student has access to the same learning objective, through tasks pitched at their current level of understanding. The goal is always the same. The route there varies.
Why it is so difficult
Creating genuinely differentiated materials requires a deep understanding of the learning progression — where the gaps typically form, what prior knowledge is needed, and what good extension looks like beyond surface-level complexity. That takes expertise and time.
How AI changes the equation
Pencil's approach to differentiation generates Foundation, Core and Extension versions of any task simultaneously. A Year 8 algebra question becomes three versions: one scaffolded with step-by-step prompts, one standard, one extended to involve proof. In 30 seconds.
What teachers still need to do
Assign the right version to the right student. This requires knowing your class — something no AI can do. The tool handles the production; the teacher handles the judgment.
The mixed-ability classroom
Some teachers prefer to give all students the Core version initially, with Foundation and Extension available on request. This reduces labelling while still providing support. AI makes this approach viable by making the creation of alternatives effortless.
Try the tools mentioned in this article
Free to start. No credit card needed.
