Finding the Just Right Challenge: Introducing the Zigzag Equalizer
Transcript [pdf]
SHOW NOTES
Key Takeaways
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- One-size-fits-all doesn’t work. Every student’s “just right” level of challenge changes moment to moment, day to day.
- The Zigzag Equalizer helps you adjust in real time. It gives you 10 dimensions— like Concrete to Abstract or Simple to Complex—that you can fine-tune for each learner.
- You’re the DJ of differentiation. Think of yourself as adjusting sliders, not creating new tracks.
- It’s not just about support— it’s about energy. What students can handle is tied to how much energy or tension a task demands.
- Students can learn to self-regulate, too. When we teach them how to “toggle” challenge levels, we build independence, agency, and advocacy.
- One-size-fits-all doesn’t work. Every student’s “just right” level of challenge changes moment to moment, day to day.
Episode Download/Handout
This free visual tool breaks down 10 key learning dimensions- like Single to Multiple or Structured to Open- and helps you adjust instruction on the fly. Whether a task is too hard, too easy, or just misaligned, the Zigzag Equalizer helps you shift the challenge level to meet student needs. You’ll also get step-by-step guidance on how to use it, reduce stressors, and build toward independence. Download it now at inclusiveschooling.com/download48.
Favorite Talking Points
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- “Disengagement is a clue— not a problem.” The Equalizer helps you respond with strategy instead of blame.
- “Just-right learning is dynamic.” Today’s perfect fit might not work tomorrow. That’s why the toggle matters.
- “Disengagement is a clue— not a problem.” The Equalizer helps you respond with strategy instead of blame.
Practical Tips
1️. Watch for Signs of Disengagement
When students check out, start toggling— try moving from complex to simple, or open-ended to structured.
2️. Offer Choices, Not Excuses
Students can select the level of challenge that works for them in the moment— without losing access to the core task.
3️. Model the Equalizer Out Loud
Talk students through your decisions: “Today, we’ll keep this familiar. Tomorrow, we’ll stretch into something new.”
4️. Embed It in Daily Routines
Use the Equalizer to reframe group work, transitions, reading tasks, or clean-up expectations. It applies everywhere.
Additional Resources
- From Simple to Complex: Adjusting Supports the Inclusive Way: This blog post explores how inclusive educators can honor the full complexity of student identities while resisting the urge to oversimplify. Dr. Julie Causton shares practical guidance for shifting mindsets— from labeling and limiting students to embracing their multidimensional strengths. It's an encouraging reminder to slow down, lean into curiosity, and view students through a lens of possibility and wholeness.
- Why “Just Right” Matters: How to Use the Zigzag Equalizer to Reduce Stress & Boost Learning: This LinkedIn article introduces the Zigzag Equalizer, a powerful visual tool that helps educators dial up or down the complexity of a task to meet students right where they are. Instead of guessing why a student is shutting down or zoning out, the Equalizer invites us to slide across ten developmental progressions- like Concrete to Abstract or Self to Others- to find that “just-right” level of challenge. With practical strategies and classroom-ready tips, this post empowers educators to reduce stress and boost learning for every student.