A Checklist of Modifications Used in the Classroom
Modifications are an integral part of success for students with learning disabilities. All educators need to be familiar with the individualized educational programs, a plan to account for students' disabilities, and to outline methods for dealing with students' special needs. There are very generalized modifications that can be used for all students to improve achievement. Also, although adjustments to instruction are required for special education students as a result of their educational plans, they can also be used to help regular education students who are struggling.
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Preferential Seating
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One of the most basic modifications is to give certain students preferential seating. A student's seat in the classroom can have a direct impact on their success. Students who sit in the front of the room can see the board more clearly and can be closely monitored by the teacher. Moving students away from distractions such as windows is another seating change that can be made for student's with learning disabilities. Specials standing desks that have stools are also made for students with attention disorders. The student can sit or stand at these desks without disruption, and there is bar underneath the desk that the student can swing to release pent-up energy without interfering with instruction.
Extended Time
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Most classified students are given time and a half on assignments. If students have one class period for a test, for example, a student with learning disabilities gets a full period as well as a half of another period. This extension of time applies to projects and tests, and is even used for standardized testing by the Individualized Educational Program. Giving students with learning disabilities extended time allows them to properly process questions or tasks and complete them to the best of their ability.
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Testing Modifications
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Another modification involves taking students to a smaller location for testing. This helps learning-disabled students that have behavioral limitations by limiting distractions and provides the teacher with an opportunity to read the test aloud to them. Many students with learning disabilities are more successful when information is read orally to them.
Deduction of Points
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If a student has a particular disability that prevents him from being able to complete a task correctly, the teacher cannot take points off the grade. For example, many Individualized Educational Programs do not allow the teacher to take points off of assignments for spelling errors or sloppy workIf a student is dyslexic or dis-graphic. Teachers instead modify the rubrics used for these students. If a project is given, in which presentation or neatness counts, such as a mechanics and usage section, the rubric should not include that category for the student with learning disabilities.
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