Individualizing instruction (IEP, Instructional models)
There are many ways for teachers to individualize education for students with disabilities based on student strengths and weaknesses. One of the first things to do after getting class lists is to look over your students IEPs and make notes. This IEP at a glance document is from Portland Public schools and can be downloaded and filled in on the computer.
Once you know about your students you can begin to plan with their strengths and weaknesses in mind. Below is a Prezi presentation that gives an idea of all the factors to consider when planning a lesson. It was created for this project. It seems overwhelming, but it is much easier to plan a lesson well from the beginning than to try to change a lesson after it is planned. All students benefit from well-planned lessons and some things you will do will benefit a student that although does not have a disability is struggling in an area. For example, I often create graphic organizers for my students to assist with their writing. I know that some of my students with disabilities need them to begin and others only if they get stuck or are struggling. The act of creating the graphic organizer helps me to see areas in a project where a student might get stuck or need help. I am then ready to provide that assistance and the organizer if needed to any student that is struggling. |
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