A factor under the instructional competence of a teacher particularly in his/her lesson planning and delivery is the way he/she addresses individual differences. This must be considered because in reality, there are no two individuals exactly the same or alike. As such, the teacher should make it a point to take this into consideration to meet the needs of every learner under her guidance.

            Although it is said that all men are created equal, yet individuals do vary and differ from one another in terms of age differences and personal adjustments, sex differences, family and community background, physical conditions, emotional response and attitudes, and mental abilities and specific aptitudes.

            Normally, younger children cannot perform the tasks of older pupils. In our society, boys are given roles different from the girls. Boys are characterized by fearlessness, aggressiveness and are expected to perform burdensome activities. Girls on the other hand are characterized by neatness, simplicity and for being affectionate.

            Teachers should always bear in mind that physical ailment and defects also affect the learning process. Another matter is that our pupils have different emotional reaction in various situations. More so, our pupils’ mental abilities differ from one another.

            Addressing individual differences is vital in the teaching and learning process. Approaches inside and outside the classroom should be based into considerations. Every pupil is unique and for him to feel he is secured, teachers should consider the factors affecting the personality and adjustments of the child.

By: Celia A. David | Teacher III | (Bacong Elementary School) | Limay, Bataan