Differentiated instruction is an approach to teaching that involves providing different avenues for students to acquire content, process ideas, and develop products so that all students within a classroom can learn effectively, regardless of differences in individual learning needs. It requires teachers to strategically plan varying learning experiences that challenge and engage students at different readiness levels, interests, and learning profiles. Some key aspects of differentiated instruction include pre-assessing students, flexible grouping, choice boards, and tiered assignments tailored to individual student needs.