Definitions
What does it mean to "accommodate" a student in the classroom?
Removing barriers that prevent students from participating fully in the educational environment, that is representative of their unique learning abilities.
Sarah struggles to read the font on the reading comprehension activity that she is assigned. What accommodation/modification might you use?
- Allow Sarah to read the activity on a Chromebook (using Google Read and Write)
- Make a copy for Sarah using a larger font
Accommodations and modifications are the SAME.
False!
What does IEP stand for?
Individualized Education Plan :)
What does it mean to "modify" a student in the classroom?
Instructional, environmental or assessment adaptations to the expectations for a student, based on their individual needs.
Allison is accommodated in all math strands on her IEP, and struggles to solve complicated math problems. What are THREE accommodations you might include on her IEP?
- Reduce the number of questions
- Allow Allison to use manipulatives
- Preferential seating in the classroom, which will allow for frequent check-ins
You can use both accommodations and modifications on the same IEP.
True!
How do you know if a student needs an accommodation or a modification?
Accommodations only change the physical or environmental surroundings of the student, whereas modifications change the content of the tasks being assigned.
What does it mean when a student is diagnosed with MID?
The student is slower in all areas of conceptual development, social and daily living skills
Alex struggles with reading and writing, and he would much rather play video games than do his homework or complete assigned tasks. How would you determine whether or not he needs an IEP? How would you know to accommodate or modify him?
- Use a positive reinforcement system with Alex: he completes a task, he gets a certain amount of time to choose an activity
- Evaluate reading capability (one-on-one assessment) and writing samples
- Use the results from the Educational Assessment and professional judgment (based on Alex's work) to identify possible accommodations/modifications
Once a student is on an IEP, they can never be taken off of it.
False!
What are some positives to an IEP for a student?
- Helps the student feel comfortable at school and in their learning environment
- Reduces stress surrounding schoolwork
- Establishes structure
- Individual focus and care
What is the definition of a learning disability?
Disorders that affect the ability to understand or use spoken or written language, do mathematical calculations, coordinate movements, or direct attention.
John is in grade 4, and has just been diagnosed with MID. He has had an Educational Assessment, and an IEP is recommended. John's parents do not agree, and they are fighting the teacher/administration on the IEP implementation. How might you approach John's family? Give 3 examples of what you might do.
- Constant communication: update the family every step of the way, and allow them to be a part of the IEP writing process
- Listen to their concerns, and make sure they understand that you are doing what you think is best for John to succeed
- Be firm, but kind. This can be difficult for many families to hear. Offer to help with a support group or with researching MID, and the benefits of an IEP
A parent should not be allowed to have a say in the IEP process, or what goes on the IEP.
False!
How do you know if a student no longer needs the accommodations or modifications you have provided?
- The student's achievement has drastically increased
- They are able to do more than what you have assigned based on their IEP
- They might even tell you they are ready to try something else, or they no longer need it!