In fact, McTighe and Brown (2005) found that achievement gaps decreased, students demonstrated greater independence and expressiveness , and demonstrate their learning in ways that highlight their abilities and passions (p. 237-239). Meeting the needs of students ensures a fair and equitable education because each student accesses learning at a level that suits them. This will also increase student motivation, as they are more likely to engage in learning that is tailor-made for them. Dotger and Causton-Theoharis (2010) argue that “when students are allowed to express what they need to learn and we meet that need through our teaching, we see more motivated and interested students, eager to share their ideas with their classmates” (p. .22). Elizabeth Shirley (2012) further suggests that students will benefit when teachers create real-world lessons through the use of themes, such that they will be highly engaged in the content being taught (p..