From our physical appearance to our mental capacities to our favorite card in Pokémon, everyone's a unique snowflake…or something.

It's especially important to keep that in mind when preparing curriculum for students in special education. Whether the kid in question has a particular type of learning disability or just needs a slightly different approach to learning, being flexible and patient is the way to go.

Back in the old days (you know, like 1980s old), special education was a class all unto itself. Now most schools operate with an all-inclusive classroom model, where special ed kids go into regular classes for most of the day. Which means we're in a more progressive society, but also that certain adjustments have to be made.

Many special education students have an aide or co-teacher who is there to assist the general education teacher with student-specific needs. But it's important for the gen ed teacher to know how to differentiate instruction across the board.

Before we start, let's set one thing straight: differentiating instruction does not mean making assignments "easier" or shorter. Sometimes a dash of out-of-the-box thinking will achieve greater results.

Strategies

Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). For the sake of your own sanity, know your special education students' IEPs like you know the back of your hand (or the Frappuccino flavors at Starbucks—you know, whatever you actually know). This handy document is your blueprint for differentiation. Most IEPs are specific workups created by a special education teacher, parents, and the people who know the child best. Learn to love this document like you love that caramel mocha freddo.

Peer Collaboration. Training students to work in partnerships is important. People need to learn to work with people—it's just one of those life necessities. You might consider creating several "shifts" of rotating partners to work with the special education student. Academically, students learn a lot from teaching the material. Socially, students learn to be more accepting, empathetic, and all around nicer people. Look at all the wins you can cram in there.

Technology. We live in a world of Star Wars-like technology. If Luke can program C-3PO to complain while serving space coffee, surely technology has a place in your classroom. Use audiobooks, power points, smart boards, and anything that starts with an "i" (i.e. iPod, iPad). Technology levels the playing field for all students, and that can be empowering. Just make sure your students use for the here-and-now and don't get sucked into a galaxy far, far away.

Sensory Learning. Students are more likely to retain new information when it has been presented using multi-sensory methods—and that can include tasting, touching, hearing, moving, and seeing. For example, move like different sound waves. Taste special foods from around the world. Listen to a Mockingjay torment Katniss during the Hunger Games. You get the gist.

Creative Assessments. Multiple-choice tests or essays are usually not the greatest ways to assess a special education student. Use formative assessments and physical assessment tools (such as sorting pictures or tiles) to allow students to demonstrate their learning in ways that best suit them.

In general, a bit of flexibility goes a long way. It'll depend on the individual student and the way he or she processes information, and it'll depend on you being an empathetic and adaptable teacher. Keep that in mind and you'll ensure the most positive and productive classroom environments for students one and all.