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Teaching
Exceptional
Students
EDU 3243
Standard 7:
Planning for
Instruction
The
teacher
plans
instruction
that
supports every student
in meeting rigorous
learning
goals
by
drawing
upon
knowledge of content
areas,
curriculum,
cross-disciplinary skills,
and pedagogy, as well
as
knowledge
of
learners
and
the
community context.

Differentiation in the Math Classroom

Although students with special
needs learn in different ways then
the general population, their
development as learners and
individuals is an important goal of
the general education teacher. In
order to ensure these students
success, differentiated instruction
caters to the needs of special
needs students by making their
learning experience achievable
and enjoyable.
For students with ADD or ADHD,
limited alertness, impulsive action,
and hyperactivity can distract
them from important information
taught in the classroom. In
content areas where instruction is
crucial to understanding, such as
math, it is important for the
teacher to grab and hold the
attention of students with ADD or
ADHD. One way of accomplishing
this is through the effective
integration of technology and
hands-on
activities
in
the
classroom.

Math, for many students is an

abstract concept difficult to
make sense of. Manipulatives that
allow students to maneuver
objects while connecting abstract
concepts
with
concrete
experience
can
aid
in
comprehension. These physical
actions
combined
with
the
wonderment of technology can
keep students with ADD and
ADHD engaged in the learning
experience. Programs such as the
interactive SMART Board activities,
iPad applications, and clickers
can draw the attention of
students that might have difficulty
concentrating or understanding
mathematical concepts. These
enhancements can be used in
every day lessons, preparation for
a test or quiz, or as an assessment
tool.
Not
only
will
these
technologies
raise
students
engagement, but it will also make
the learning experience fun and
meaningful.