Tool Deep Dive: Diffit.ai – Differentiation Made Doable in Minutes (EdTech)

 

Tool Deep Dive: Diffit.ai – Differentiation Made Doable in Minutes

Let’s be honest - differentiation is one of those non-negotiables in modern teaching, but also one of the first things to suffer when time’s tight. Enter: Diffit.ai.

I’ve been using Diffit.ai consistently over the past four weeks, both in lessons and behind the scenes during planning time. I’ve trialled it with KS3 English, Year 10 Geography, and even a small SEN group. The verdict? It’s a genuine timesaver, not just another EdTech novelty.

Here’s how it holds up in real use and where it still has room to grow.

What Is Diffit.ai?

Diffit.ai is a web-based AI platform that takes any content text, URL, topic, or video and instantly generates differentiated learning materials tailored to different reading levels. It can break things down, simplify language, provide comprehension tasks, and create summarised versions of complex content.

Use Case 1: Simplifying Complex Articles for KS3

Scenario:
Year 8 English – nonfiction unit on climate change.
I took a Guardian article on climate policy, dropped the link into Diffit, and within 30 seconds, I had:

  • A low-reading-level version (perfect for lower-attaining pupils or EAL learners)

  • A medium version (suitable for the average reader)

  • A high-level version with technical vocabulary left intact

  • Plus: A summary, vocabulary list with definitions, and multiple-choice comprehension questions.

Impact:
I used the three versions for a carousel reading activity. Pupils self-selected their version (or were guided to one), and all were able to access the key content at their own level. One pupil on the SEN register said, “I finally get what they’re talking about.” That’s a win.

Use Case 2: SEN Support and Literacy Boosting

Scenario:
Working with a small group of KS3 pupils with EHCPs in a literacy catch-up session.
I used a short story from an anthology and ran it through Diffit, choosing a Year 3 reading level (yes, that low but appropriate for the group).

Output:

  • Simple sentence structure

  • Key vocabulary highlighted and explained

  • Follow-up questions focused on sequencing and inference

Impact:
For the first time this term, these pupils were able to read independently without needing every sentence read aloud or rewritten. It gave them agency and confidence.

Use Case 3: Stretch and Challenge in Geography

Scenario:
Year 10 GCSE Geography – topic: global development
I entered the topic title into Diffit with no article. The tool generated a custom, high-level explanatory passage on the concept, complete with a vocabulary list, summary, and two writing prompts.

Impact:
I assigned this as an extension task for high-performing pupils who finished early. It became an effective way to keep them engaged while reinforcing and deepening understanding.

Strengths (After a Month of Use)

  • Ridiculously Fast: From resource input to output in under a minute. It’s now part of my weekly planning routine.

  • Multiple Formats: You can work from a URL, a topic idea, a pasted passage, or even a YouTube video.

  • Genuinely Usable Resources: The materials it produces are classroom-ready and require minimal tweaking.

  • Massive Time Saver: You could easily reclaim hours each term, especially for SEN and EAL differentiation.

Limitations (Let’s Be Honest)

  • Limited Formatting Control: You can’t edit the structure or style of the output directly within Diffit. You’ll need to copy and paste into your preferred format (Google Docs, Word, PowerPoint).

  • Comprehension Questions Are Basic: They’re useful, but often surface-level. For deeper critical thinking, I still write my own.

  • No MIS Integration (Yet): No way to import pupil profiles or automate distribution—everything is still manually assigned.

Is It Cost-Effective?

  • Free Tier: Gives you a limited number of generations per month. Great for testing and occasional support.

  • Paid Plan (£8–£12/month): Unlimited use, advanced output control, and PDF downloads.
    My view: If you differentiate regularly for a diverse group of learners, the paid version will easily earn its cost back in saved planning time. I’ve already stopped manually rewriting texts for three different groups—and that alone makes it worth it.

Final Verdict: Should Teachers Use Diffit.ai?

Absolutely especially in mainstream and SEND settings.

It’s not flashy, but it delivers where it matters: helping every pupil access meaningful content without burning out your planning hours. For any educator responsible for inclusive teaching—this is one tool that earns a permanent place in your toolkit.

Use it to:

  • Instantly generate reading versions by ability

  • Support EAL, SEN, and literacy catch-up pupils

  • Provide stretch materials for fast finishers

  • Create accessible summaries from videos or articles

Just don’t expect it to replace your pedagogy. It’s a tool for access, not analysis. But as a bridge between complex content and diverse learners, Diffit.ai has absolutely earned its reputation—and its place in my weekly planning workflow.

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