Executive Function Accommodations for Students in the Classroom

Discover practical executive function accommodations for students with ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities to support organization and time management.
IEP Goals and Accommodations to Improve Tardies and Attendance

Tardies and attendance can impact a students’ success in school. Here are some ideas for goals and accommodations that might help.
How to Use โWorking to Masteryโ as an IEP Accommodation

In special education, one question you may have heard asking during an IEP meeting is, โDoes this student really need to complete every assignment?โ And thatโs where the accommodation of โworking to masteryโ often comes in. This accommodation can help students focus on deep understanding, not just checking off tasks. It allows students to continue […]
Accommodations for Students with ADHD

When it comes to supporting students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), accommodations within an Individualized Education Program (IEP) are essential. These accommodations can help students manage their symptoms and thrive in a school setting. Possible Accommodations for ADHD It’s important to recognize that each child is unique, and what works for one may not […]
Scaffolding vs. Differentiation in Instruction

When it comes to teaching and instructional strategies, two commonly used terms are scaffolding and differentiation. While both are aimed at supporting students’ learning, they serve distinct purposes and are implemented in different ways. Let’s dive into the details of each to better understand their applications and benefits. Scaffolding in Instruction Scaffolding refers to the […]
Test Taking Accommodations for Students in Special Ed

Test taking can be a challenging experienceย for many students, but for those in special education, it can present even greater obstacles.ย Students with special needs may require accommodations to ensure they have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills during assessments. These accommodations are designed to level the playing field and provide a fair […]
Tracking Accommodations in the General Ed Classroom: Practical and Efficient Strategies for Special Ed and General Ed Teachers

Accommodations play a crucial role in ensuring the success of special education students in the general education classroom. These modifications and supports are designed to level the playing field and enable students with disabilities to access and participate in the curriculum. However, tracking the use of accommodations can be challenging for special and general education […]
Fostering Self-Advocacy: Discussing Accommodations and IEPs with Students

Inclusive education is crucial for students with disabilities to thrive academically and socially. Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) ensure students receive the necessary accommodations and support to succeed in their educational journey. However, it is equally important for students to understand their IEPs and actively participate in discussions surrounding their accommodations. This post will delve into […]
iPad Apps That Read Text Aloud to Students

Assistive technology (AT) can make a difference for students who need special assistance. For those with reading or sight disabilities, having A.T. that reads text aloud (an accommodation) to them is a game-changer. Apple’s iPad has long been an A.T. favorite due to its ability to load different apps that can assist students with everything […]
Explaining Accommodations and Modifications to the IEP Team

The difference between accommodations and modifications may have been drilled into your head as a special education teacher, but it is safe to assume that the rest of the IEP team may not be as familiar with the difference between the two. Before diving in to the IEP meeting, make sure that you take the […]
9 Types of Lesson Adaptations

There are so many different ways to adapt and modify a lesson or activity to make it appropriate for your students. As teachers, we often fall into a rut where we find our favorite adaptations and stick with them. It is fine to have favorites, but it is also important to look at the big […]
The Debate Over Shortened Assignments

Recently a teacher friend and I were discussing an IEP and a question arose over shortened assignments. While shortening the assignments the student was presented with what seemed reasonable, but was it actually an accommodation or a modification? Is there one that is preferred over the other and – if so, why? IEP goal accommodations […]
IEP Accommodations for Virtual Learning

With virtual learning comes the need for adjusted IEP accommodations to help students be successful. Figuring out what those accommodations should look like is challenging, though. This list of possible accommodations for virtual learning might help your IEP team when moving students into this Least Restrictive Environment (LRE): 1. The student can take breaks throughout […]
General Ed Teachers: Hereโs What You Need to Know About IEPs

General education teachers have a lot on their plates, just like special education teachers do. General ed have an entire classroom to manage, papers to grade, and a million things to think about on a day-to-day basis. With full inclusion becoming the norm in most school districts around the country, general education teachers who may […]
IEP Accommodations VS. IEP Modifications

Accommodations and modifications. They are two words that are frequently tossed around the world of special education, and sometimes used interchangeably. However, it is important that we differentiate between the two terms, because they mean two very different things! Legally, we need to use the correct terminology on IEPs and other documents, so letโs take […]