9/14/2024
Topic:
Students With Disabilities
Donna Geils
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I had a student with Williams Syndrome who struggled to comprehend information she read, but she could memorize short lines and was very extroverted and excited about being in the stage production. With some short coaching sessions and practice, she was able to successfully perform her role multiple times during the run of the show. A few times she got overwhelmed, but keeping her in a small group helped her manage her anxiety. She really did well when we were able to put all the elements together (lines, movement/blocking, and costume). |
9/14/2024
Topic:
Tools And Strategies
Donna Geils
|
I have used task cards and stations in tiered instruction many times over the years. They are great for guided small group discussions and activities, and help keep students focused on the task at hand. For my students with reading disabilities, the combination of the small group structure and brief/short task card directions are both effective in keeping everyone engaged and on the same page.
Presenting new activities and exercises can be a challenge, so I have utilized the Promethean board to show video demonstrations of specific skills or techniques I want to introduce. UDL is definitely at play in these strategies and tools, benefiting many in the class and not just the students with disabilities. |
9/14/2024
Topic:
Assessment of Learning
Donna Geils
|
Giving students whose disability involves writing and fine motor skills an alternative way to express what they know and can do is critical. Oral exit “tickets” and interviews as quick checks for understanding can be very effective for these students. My student with Williams Syndrome (Intellectual Disability) could enthusiastically describe what she learned, but if she had to write it down, the focus shifted to the physical act of writing rather than on what we learned about that day. She had dictation as one of her testing accommodations as well, so when a written product was needed for assessment, she dictated her responses. |