Special Education Terminology

Accommodations, Strategies, and Modifications are all common terms used in Special Education today.

Accommodations refer to the actual teaching supports and services that the student may require to successfully demonstrate learning. Accommodations should not change expectations to the curriculum grade levels.

Examples

taped books

math charts

additional time

oral test

oral reports

preferred seating

study carrel

amplified system

braille writer

adapted keyboard

specialized software

Modifications refer to changes made to curriculum expectations in order to meet the needs of the student. Modifications are made when the expectations are beyond the students level of ability. Modifications may be minimal or very complex depending on the student performance. Modifications must be clearly acknowledged in the IEP.

Examples

second language exemptions

withdrawal for specific skills

include student in same activity but individualize the expectations and materials

student is involved in same theme/unit but provide different task and expectations

Strategies refer to skills or techniques used to assist in learning. Strategies are individualized to suit the student learning style and developmental level.

Examples

highlighting

rehearsal

color coding

memory joggers

visual cues

number lines

alphabet strips

keyring sight words

flip chart

organization/transition cards

jello powder, play doe, seed spelling

window paint

bingo dapper

stencils

ink stamps

Remember, when developing and implementing accommodations, strategies and modifications, what works for one student may not work for another. Keep it individualized for optimum success!