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Definition
"Specific learning disability means a disorder in one of more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding
or in using language, spoken or written, which may manifest itself in an imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, read,
write, spell or to do mathematical calculations. The term inclused such conditions as perceptual handicaps, brain in
jury, minimal brain dysfunction, dyslexia, and developmental aphasia. The term does not include children who have learning
problems which are primarily the result of visual, hearing, or motor handicaps, of mental retardation, or emotional disturbance,
or of environmental, cultural, or economic disadvantage." (IDEA 2004)
Characteristics
- Academic deficits
- Language deficits
- Social-emotional problems
- Attention deficits and/or hyperactivity
- Memory difficulties
- Cognitive delays
- Perceptual differences
- Motor skill and coordination problems
Accommodations
- Pre-teach vocabulary
- Flexible time limits
- Flexible seating
- Alternative presentation format
- Alternative response format
- Advance organizer
- Number tables and charts
- Calculators (regular or speaking)
- Modified assignments
- Safe place
- Clarify directions
Strategies
- State directions/rules and expectations clearly
- Use of visuals
- Teach social and emotional skills
- Remediate basic skills
- Direct instruction
- Structured learning
- Cooperative learning
- Peer teaching/review
- Build home-school connections
- Hands-on and interactive learning
- Computer programs for skill-building in math and reading
- Re-teach phonics if needed
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