Lesson 3: How Can I Modify Lessons to Meet the Needs of Diverse Learners?
Navigation Link: Jordie Slobodow's Mini Course
What are modification strategies for students who are deaf or hard at hearing?
- Provide visual aids and extended resources (PowerPoint slides, diagrams, charts, pictures, and videos)
- Captions and transcripts
- Sign language interpreters
- Visual notetaking (sketching, mind mapping, or using graphic organizers)
- Preferential Seating
- Utilize Assistive Listening Devices (such as personal amplification device)
Some tips for implementation:
- Create opportunities for students who are deaf or hard of hearing to participate in class discussions and ask questions.
- Written materials allow students to follow along with the lesson more easily and provide a reference for concepts discussed in class.
What are modification strategies for students who have a learning disability?
- Differentiated instruction (varying the content, process, or product of instruction based on students' readiness, interests, and learning profiles)
- Have a student use a graphic organizer instead of their notes sheet to organize their thoughts effectively
- Multisensory instruction: modify the techniques you are usually to engage students (e.g., visual, auditory, kinesthetic)
- Modified assignments (this may include reducing the length or complexity of assignments, providing additional scaffolding or support, or offering alternative ways for students to demonstrate their understanding)
- Visual aids (provide visual supports that help students organize information and make connections)
Some tips for implementation:
- Provide multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression to accommodate different learning styles and preferences.
- Simplified language
- Consider providing the student with peer support (classroom helpers who will provide extra support during lessons)
What are modification strategies for students who have a mobility disabilities?
- Accessible Classroom Layout
- Accessible Materials and Resources (digital textbooks and larger print materials)
- Assistive Technology (ergonomic keyboards, speech recognition software, or voice-activated assistants that allow students to navigate digital materials and participate in classroom activities more easily)
- Accessible Assessment Options (oral presentations, written assignments, or multimedia projects)
Some tips for implementation:
- Perhaps conduct an accessibility assessment to identify potential barriers of student learning
- Make sure all instructional materials are in proximity of the student
- Complete regular check-ins and provide feedback
- Promote independence and have the student advocate for themselves
What are modification strategies for students who are visually impaired?
- Enlarged text
- Modify assignments and activities to accommodate students who are visually impaired
- Provide audio descriptions of visual materials such as diagrams, charts, and illustrations used in the lesson.
Some tips for implementation:
- Offer verbal explanations of visual content
- Encourage peer support and collaboration among students
- Ensure that the classroom layout is accessible for students who are visually impaired
- Promote independence
Lets Review!
In order to review this unit on accommodations and modifications, participants will complete a journal prompt.
In 250 words or less respond to this questions and submit it by emailing j.slobodow@albany.edu
How can you provide effective accommodations and modifications in your classroom to meet the needs of culturally diverse students? Provide some examples.
References: