When homeschooling or working with students who require special education, accommodations and modifications are key strategies to support their learning. Here’s a breakdown of both and examples of how to apply them in a homeschool setting:
Accommodations
Accommodations change how students learn the material but do not alter the actual learning expectations. The goal is to provide access to the same curriculum while accounting for the student’s needs.
Types of Accommodations:
Instructional:
- Visual aids for students with Visual Processing Disorder (VPD).
- Breaking down instructions into smaller steps for students with Auditory Processing Disorder (APD).
- Hands-on activities for students with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) or dyspraxia to engage multiple senses.
- Extra processing time for students with ADHD or language disorders like dysphasia.
Environmental:
- Reduced distractions for students with ADHD, ODD, or APD (e.g., working in a quiet room).
- Flexible seating (e.g., movement breaks or sitting on a stability ball) for children who struggle with focus or sensory input.
Assessment:
- Oral assessments instead of written ones for students with language disorders (dysphasia, mixed receptive-expressive language disorder).
- Use of assistive technology like speech-to-text for writing tasks.
- Alternative formats include allowing students with dysphasia or VPD to express understanding through drawings or other visual means.
Timing:
- Extended time on assignments and tests for students who process information more slowly.
- Frequent breaks for students with ADHD, SPD, or dyspraxia to avoid sensory overload or fatigue.
Modifications
Modifications change what a student is expected to learn. This means adjusting the content or performance expectations to align with the student’s ability level.
Types of Modifications:
Curriculum Content:
- Simplified assignments for students with intellectual disabilities or severe language disorders, like reducing the number of math problems or providing more straightforward texts.
- Alternate goals (e.g., focusing on foundational skills in math or reading instead of grade-level standards) for students with significant learning difficulties.
Alternate Assignments:
- Students with language disorders or learning disabilities could create a visual presentation, story map, or summary instead of an entire essay.
- Lower reading levels or adapted reading materials for students struggling with dysphasia or VPD.
Assessment Modifications:
- Simplified tests that focus on key concepts instead of comprehensive exams.
- Reduced number of questions or options to use multiple-choice formats instead of essays.
Grading Adjustments:
- Pass/fail grading for students working on modified goals.
- Grading is based on effort or progress rather than accuracy for students with significant disabilities like dyspraxia or ODD.
These accommodations and modifications can be personalized to fit each child’s unique needs, making the homeschool environment more inclusive and conducive to their success. Let me know if you’d like more specific strategies for your working conditions!
