Understanding Disability
How does WHO define disability?
A temporary, prolonged, or permanent reduction or absence of ability to perform daily activities.
What are gifted students characterized by?
Exceptionally high abilities in academics, creativity, leadership, or arts.
What is a speech disorder example?
Lisp or stutter.
What is cerebral palsy?
A disorder impairing movement and muscle coordination due to nervous system issues.
What is asthma?
Obstructed airways causing breathing difficulties.
What term is commonly used in Canada for students with disabilities?
Students with exceptionalities.
What defines a learning disability?
A discrepancy between ability and achievement despite average intelligence.
What is a language disorder?
Impairment in expressive or receptive language.
What is spina bifida?
Prenatal condition affecting spinal cord development.
What is cystic fibrosis?
A condition causing severe respiratory and digestive issues.
What language approach is recommended when referring to disabilities?
Person-first language (e.g., “person with a disability”).
What are emotional/behavioral exceptionalities?
Chronic behaviours that interfere with learning, such as aggression or anxiety.
How do deaf students primarily access information?
Through visual sources.
What is muscular dystrophy?
Progressive weakening of voluntary muscles.
What is Crohn’s disease?
Inflammatory bowel disease causing abdominal pain and fatigue.
Give an example of outdated terminology.
“The handicapped” or “wheelchair-bound.”
What is an intellectual disability?
Significant limitations in cognitive and adaptive behaviours.
What does “hard of hearing” mean?
Partial hearing loss that affects speech and language development.
What is juvenile arthritis?
Chronic inflammation of joints causing pain and stiffness.
How does cancer affect schooling?
Students may miss school for treatment but often return for normalcy.
Why is person-first language important?
It emphasizes the individual, not the disability.
What is the difference between mild and severe intellectual disabilities?
Mild = MID; severe = developmental disabilities (DD).
Why might students with autism receive communication services?
To enhance expressive and receptive language skills.
What is diabetes?
A condition where the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin.
What is FASD?
Physical and cognitive impairments caused by prenatal alcohol exposure.