LEARNING DISABILITIES

Laymans Definition A child who has difficulty learning in any of 8 different

categories. The different specific learning disability (SLD) categories are:
Mathematical Calculations, Mathematical Problem Solving, Written Expression,
Basic Reading Skills, Reading Comprehension, Listening Comprehension, Oral
Expression, and Reading Fluency.
Identification Students are identified as learning disabled by assessments that
include an IQ test and an academic evaluation. IQ is learning potential, and
Academic is achievement in academic areas of reading, math, and writing.
Classroom observations by the psychologist are also included. They are
looking for areas of strengths and weaknesses. The area of weakness has to
be in the bottom 10th percentile of the standardized score.
Accommodations Some things that might help the student when you work
with them in the classroom:
* multisensory approach
* direct instruction they may NOT be able to come up with
with a solution without some tools.
* shorten assignments, chunk assignments
* watch for escalation of stress
* give additional time, a quiet place if necessary
* Use visual schedules, manipulatives, pictures, videos
* provide an alternate form of assessment
* give additional wait time
* help them read material above their level (peer,
teacher, parent volunteer)
* Make sure they understand directions. (repeat, paraphrase,
have the student repeat the directions)
* Help find an organizational system that works for the student
(you may have to try several).