Myths and Facts
Can you always tell if someone has a disability by looking at them?
No. Some disabilities are invisible.
What is unfair treatment based on disability called?
Ableism.
What could help someone who cannot use stairs enter a building?
A ramp or accessible entrance.
What is designing for as many people as possible from the start called?
Universal design.
Before helping someone, what should you do first?
Ask if they want help.
Do people with the same disability always need the same support?
No. Everyone has different needs.
A group leaves out a classmate because they assume they cannot contribute. What's wrong?
They are judging without giving the classmate a chance.
Name two ways to make a video accessible to someone who cannot hear it.
Name two ways to make a video accessible to someone who cannot hear it.
Name one accessibility feature that can help people without disabilities, too.
Captions, ramps, or text-to-speech.
A classmate may struggle with a group activity. What should you do instead of excluding them?
Invite them and ask what would help them participate.
Does dyslexia mean someone is less intelligent?
No. A learning disability does not determine intelligence.
Why can disability-related insults be harmful, even as jokes?
They spread negative stereotypes about disability.
A school has ramps, but its website doesn't work with screen readers. What barrier remains?
A digital accessibility barrier.
How is universal design different from fixing a barrier later?
It considers different needs from the beginning.
A classmate seems to have no disability. Can you be sure?
No. Some disabilities are invisible.
Why might someone choose not to share their disability?
It is personal information, and sharing is their choice.
Why might calling someone inspirational for an everyday task be unfair?
It can overshadow their real achievements.
Name two ways to make a classroom more accessible.
Clear pathways, readable instructions, captions, accessible seating, or reduced noise.
How can written checklists help students who struggle with verbal instructions?
They can review the steps and follow them more easily.
Someone prefers a different term for their disability than you do. What should you do?
Respect their preference.
Why shouldn't we assume someone with a disability always needs help?
Support needs differ from person to person and situation to situation.
An assumption leads to unfair treatment. What might happen next?
Someone may be excluded or lose an opportunity.
Why might a doorway that works for most people still be inaccessible to others?
It may not allow enough space for mobility aids.
Give one classroom change for each: physical access, communication, and sensory needs.
Clear pathways; written instructions or captions; reduced noise or adjustable lighting.
Your group wants to include a disabled student but has already decided what they can do. What should change?
Ask about their interests and needs, and include them in decisions.